ENROLLED
2019 Regular Session
HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOL UTION NO. 66
BY REPRESENTATIVE SMITH AND SENATORS BISHOP, COLOMB, MORRELL,
AND TARVER
A CONCURRENT RESOL UTION
To memorialize the United States Congress to take such actions as are necessary to
recognize the historical significance of Juneteenth Independence Day to the United
States and observe Juneteenth nationally as a holiday.
WHEREAS, news of the end of slavery did not reach frontier areas of the United
States, and in particular the southwestern states, for more than two and a half years after
President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation, which was issued on January 1, 1863, and
months after the conclusion of the Civil War; and
WHEREAS, Juneteenth is an annual observance and celebration of the date Union
soldiers enforced the Emancipation Proclamation freeing all remaining slaves in Galveston,
Texas, on June 19, 1865; and
WHEREAS, since 1865, the day has been celebrated as the day African-Americans
received the news of the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation; and
WHEREAS, Juneteenth commemorates the strength and resolve of
African-Americans throughout our history, and is an opportunity to highlight the value of
African-American culture, art, history, and achievement; and
WHEREAS, the celebration of the end of slavery is an important and enriching part
of the history and heritage of the United States; and
WHEREAS, for more than one hundred fifty years, Juneteenth Independence Day
celebrations have been held to honor African-American freedom while encouraging
self-development and respect for all cultures; and
WHEREAS, forty-six states and the District of Columbia have designated Juneteenth
Independence Day as a special day of observance in recognition of the emancipation of all
slaves in the United States; and
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WHEREAS, in 1997, the 105th United States Congress officially recognized
Juneteenth as the observance of Independence Day of Americans of African descent; and
WHEREAS, Juneteenth reflects our belief in liberty and equality for every citizen,
as everyone can benefit from a greater understanding and appreciation of the experiences of
others.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Legislature of Louisiana does hereby
memorialize the United States Congress to take such actions as are necessary to recognize
the historical significance of Juneteenth Independence Day to the United States and observe
Juneteenth nationally as a holiday.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this Resolution be transmitted to the
presiding officers of the Senate and the House of Representatives of the Congress of the
United States of America and to each member of the Louisiana congressional delegation.
SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE
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