RESOLUTION NO. 240532
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Sponsor: Councilperson Darrell Curls
Honoring and celebrating Juneteenth, 2024
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WHEREAS, Juneteenth, also known as Emancipation Day, Freedom Day, or Jubilee Day, is celebrated annually on June 19th to commemorate the day in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, were informed of their liberation from slavery, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed; and
WHEREAS, the celebration of Juneteenth has grown in significance, becoming a symbol of African American freedom and achievement, and is recognized across the United States as a day to honor the culture, heritage, and contributions of African Americans to our nation; 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 is committed to promoting inclusivity, understanding, and unity among all residents and acknowledges the importance of Juneteenth in fostering community spirit and cohesion; and
WHEREAS, City Council encourages all residents to participate in the various Juneteenth events and activities that celebrate African American history and culture and to use this occasion to deepen their understanding of the ongoing journey towards equality and justice for all; NOW, THEREFORE,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF KANSAS CITY:
That the Mayor and City Council hereby celebrate and proclaim June 19, 2024 as Juneteenth/Freedom Day in Kansas City, Missouri; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this Resolution be spread upon the Minutes of the Council in testimony thereof and that a copy hereof be presented to the Asset Team with the appreciation of the Mayor, Council, and citizens of Kansas City in celebration of Juneteenth, 2024.
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