ILLINOIS REGISTER 9547
09
PROCLAMATIONS
WHEREAS, Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration commemorating the ending of slavery
in the United States; and
WHEREAS, it was on June 19, 1865, two-and-a-half years after President Lincoln's
Emancipation Proclamation that Union soldiers landed at Galveston, Texas with
news that the war had ended and that the enslaved were now free; and
WHEREAS, as freed slaves left plantations and moved to reunite with family members in other
states, they encountered a new set of challenges as free men and women; and
WHEREAS, recounting the memories of that great day in June of 1865 and its festivities would
serve as motivation and relief from the growing pressures encountered in their
new homes; and
WHEREAS, the celebration of June 19th was coined "Juneteenth" and grew with more
participation and became a time for reassuring one another, for praying and for
gathering family members; and
WHEREAS, a range of activities were provided for entertainment at early Juneteenth
celebrations, many of which continue today. Rodeos, fishing, barbecuing and
baseball are just a few of the typical activities that may be held today; and
WHEREAS, Juneteenth also focuses on education and self-improvement. Guest speakers are
often brought in and the elders are called upon to recount the events of the past.
Prayer services are often also a major part of the celebrations; and
WHEREAS, over the last few decades, Juneteenth has continued to enjoy a growing and
healthy interest from communities and organizations throughout the country - all
with the mission to promote and cultivate knowledge and appreciation of African
American history and culture; and
WHEREAS, Juneteenth today celebrates African American freedom while encouraging self-development
and respect for all cultures:
THEREFORE, I, Pat Quinn, Governor of the State of Illinois, do hereby proclaim June 19, 2009
as JUNETEENTH DAY in Illinois, in remembrance of the important events of June 19, 1865,
and encourage all citizens to learn about the important contributions that African Americans
have made to our state, and to the nation as a whole.
Issued by the Governor June 18, 2009
Filed by the Secretary of State June 22, 2009
