IN THE COUNTY LEGISLATURE OF JACKSON COUNTY, MISSOURI
Title
A RESOLUTION recognizing June 19, 2023, as Juneteenth, commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States.
Intro
RESOLUTION NO. 21312, June 15, 2023
INTRODUCED BY DaRon McGee, Megan L. Marshall, Jalen Anderson, Donna Peyton, Manuel Abarca IV, Venessa Huskey, Charlie Franklin, Jeanie Lauer, and Sean E. Smith, County Legislators
Body
WHEREAS, Juneteenth, also known as Emancipation Day or Freedom Day, is a significant and historic event commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States; and,
WHEREAS, Juneteenth celebrates the momentous occasion of June 19, 1865, when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation, and notified the remaining enslaved individuals in the state of Texas of their freedom, more than two years after the proclamation was initially issued by President Abraham Lincoln; and,
WHEREAS, Juneteenth was brought from Texas to Jackson County in 1980 by Horace M. Peterson III, founder of the Black Archives of Mid-America-Kansas City, as an annual heritage celebration and platform that recognized the emancipation of enslaved Africans in America and paid tribute to the Black founders and important citizens of Jackson County; and,
WHEREAS, JuneteenthKC will be celebrated with a Heritage Festival on June 17, 2023, in the Historic 18th & Vine Jazz District, featuring over 200 retail vendors, an interactive youth zone, and live performances from Pokey Bear, Sir Charles, Kevin “Church” Johnson, Kim Keys, and more; and,
WHEREAS, Juneteenth represents a pivotal moment in American history, highlighting the resilience, strength, and determination of African Americans in their pursuit of freedom, justice, and equality; and,
WHEREAS, Juneteenth serves as a reminder of the struggles and sacrifices endured by African Americans throughout history, while also acknowledging the contributions and achievements they have made to our nation and society; and,
WHEREAS, Juneteenth has grown to become a symbol of unity, cultural heritage, and community empowerment, fostering dialogue, education, and understanding among people from diverse backgrounds; and,
WHEREAS, recognizing and celebrating Juneteenth provides an opportunity for reflection on the progress made in the pursuit of racial equality and justice, as well as a call to action to address the ongoing challenges and disparities that persist in our communities; and,
WHEREAS, it is essential to acknowledge Juneteenth and promote its significance to Jackson County, demonstrating our commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and the principles of freedom and equality for all; now therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED by the County Legislature of Jackson County, Missouri, that the Legislature hereby recognizes Juneteenth as an important and meaningful observance, joining communities across the nation in commemorating this historic event; and,
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Legislature encourages residents, organizations, and businesses to celebrate Juneteenth by engaging in activities that promote education, understanding, and reflection on the historical significance of the day.
Enacted and Approved
Effective Date: This Resolution shall be effective immediately upon its passage by a majority of the Legislature.
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
____________________________ ______________________________
Chief Deputy County Counselor County Counselor
Certificate of Passage
I hereby certify that the attached resolution, Resolution No. 21312 of June 15, 2023, was duly passed on ______________________, 2023 by the Jackson County Legislature. The votes thereon were as follows:
Yeas _______________ Nays ______________
Abstaining _________ Absent ____________
________________________ ____________________________
Date Mary Jo Spino, Clerk of Legislature