Title
Special Recognition - Proclamation Recognizing Juneteenth
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Proclaim June 19th, 2021 as Juneteenth.
Report
Issue:
Whether to proclaim June 19th, 2021 Juneteenth.
Staff Contact:
Linnaea Jablonski, Human Resources Director, 360.753.8309
Presenter(s):
None
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.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
N/A
Options:
1. Proclaim June 19th, 2021 Juneteenth.
2. Do not proclaim June 19th, 2021 Juneteenth.
Financial Impact:
N/A
Attachments:
Proclamation