RESOLUTION NO. 250508
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Sponsor: Mayor Pro Tem Ryana Parks-Shaw
RESOLUTION - Recognizing Juneteenth and honoring the contributions of African Americans in Kansas City.
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WHEREAS, Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, the day that Union soldiers, led by Major General Gordon Granger, arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the end of the Civil War and the emancipation of all enslaved people-more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation; and
WHEREAS, Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, Jubilee Day, Emancipation Day, and Black Independence Day, is recognized as the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States; and
WHEREAS, the observance of Juneteenth serves as a time to reflect on our nation’s history, honor the lives and struggles of African Americans, celebrate Black culture and excellence, and recommit ourselves to the ongoing fight for equality, equity, and justice; and
WHEREAS, the City of Kansas City African American Support Success & Encouragement Team (ASSET) hosts their 3rd Annual Juneteenth Celebration for City employees to honor freedom, culture, and community in the Kansas City area; and
WHEREAS, Kansas City is home to generations of African American families, leaders, educators, entrepreneurs, artists, and public servants who have shaped the heart and future of our city, and whose contributions continue to uplift and inspire; and
WHEREAS, in May 2021 Councilwoman Melissa Robinson championed legislation to designate Juneteenth as a city holiday, followed by the United States Congress designating Juneteenth a federal holiday; and
WHEREAS, the City of Kansas City recognizes the importance of supporting and promoting culturally inclusive celebrations that strengthen community bonds and foster a sense of belonging and historical awareness; NOW, THEREFORE,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF KANSAS CITY:
That the Mayor and Council hereby recognize and honor Juneteenth as a day of historical and cultural significance in the City of Kansas City, Missouri, and extend their sincere appreciation to the City’s African American community for its enduring contributions to the City’s development, character, and future.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution be spread upon the Minutes of the Council in testimony thereof and that a copy be presented to the African American Support Success & Encouragement Team (ASSET), with the appreciation of the Mayor, Council, and citizens of Kansas City.
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