Title
Special Recognition - Proclamation Recognizing Juneteenth
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Proclaim June 19, 2024 as Juneteenth in the City of Olympia.
Report
Issue:
Whether to proclaim June 19, 2024 as Juneteenth in the City of Olympia.
Staff Contacts:
Olivia Salazar de Breaux, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Specialist, Parks, Arts and Recreation Department, 360.753.8343
Rachael Meares, Cultural Event Program Specialist, Parks, Arts and Recreation Department, 360.753.8470
Presenter(s):
Shawna Hawk, M.A., Executive Director and Founder, Women of Color in Leadership Movement
Background and Analysis:
Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. On June 19, 1865, a Union General rode into Galveston, Texas to announce that the Civil War had ended, and slaves had been freed. Recognition of Juneteenth varies across the United States. It is not officially recognized by the Federal government, although the Senate unanimously passed a simple resolution in 2018 in honor of the day, and legislation has been introduced in Congress several times to make it either a "national day of observance" or a full-scale Federal holiday. In 2021 Washington State Governor Jay Inslee declared Juneteenth a State Holiday. The City of Olympia urges all residents to become more aware of the significance of this celebration in African American History and its role in the heritage of our nation and City.
On June 19, 2021, the City of Olympia partnered with the Women of Color in Leadership Movement, Media Island International, and the Hawk Foundation for Research and Education in African Culture to host the first annual Juneteenth Celebration. The City, its employees, elected officials, community members, and visitors enthusiastically participated. This year the City is pleased to partner again with the Women of Color in Leadership Movement and Media Island International to host the fourth annual Juneteenth Celebration Festival on June 22, 2024 from 1 pm to 5 pm at Rebecca Howard Park. Included in this year’s festivities will be a commemoration of the Black Liberation flag crosswalk painting at 9th Avenue, which the City coordinated to be completed by Juneteenth.
Climate Analysis:
No impacts to any of the climate mitigation sectors.
Equity Analysis:
This recognition raises awareness about the sacrifices, contributions, and achievements made by generations of African Americans / Black community members here in the Pacific Northwest and across the nation. This recognition benefits Olympia residents as well as those in neighboring communities by increasing a sense of belonging and inclusion.
Attachments:
Proclamation