HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025 JuneteenthCOLUMBIA HEIGHTS
PROCLAMATION
Juneteenth Freedom Day: June 19, 2025
In August 1619, 20-30 enslaved Africans arrived at Point Comfort, Virginia, marking the
beginning of slavery in the present-day United States.
On July 4,1776, the Declaration of Independence affirmed the principle that all men are
created equal.
On January 1,1863, Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, freeing
millions of enslaved people, although enforcement was inconsistent.
In Texas, slavery persisted due to the lack of Union troops, and enslavers viewed it as a
refuge for slavery.
On June 19, 1865, Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas, declaring all enslaved
people in the state free, a day now known as Juneteenth.
Juneteenth encourages reflection on our history and celebrates the contributions of
African Americans, while highlighting the need to address systemic racism and ensure
equal protection and dignity for all.
On February 3, 2023, Governor Tim Walz signed into law legislation establishing
Juneteenth as an official state holiday held each year on June 19.
Juneteenth marks our country's second Independence Day, celebrating freedom and
justice, and calls us to commit to equity, equality, and justice.
NOW, THEREFORE,1, Amada Marquez Simula, Mayor of Columbia Heights, do
hereby proclaim Thursday, June 19, 2025, as: **JUNETEENTH FREEDOM DAY** in
the city of Columbia Heights, County of Anoka, State of Minnesota, U.S.A.
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• . • ' Mayor
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