[Congressional Bills 116th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H. Res. 1001 Engrossed in House (EH)]

<DOC>
H. Res. 1001

                In the House of Representatives, U. S.,

                                                         June 30, 2020.
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 2\1/2\ 
        years after President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation, which was 
        issued on January 1, 1863, and months after the conclusion of the Civil 
        War;
Whereas, on June 19, 1865, Union soldiers led by Major General Gordon Granger 
        arrived in Galveston, Texas, with news that the Civil War had ended and 
        that the enslaved were free;
Whereas African Americans who had been slaves in the Southwest celebrated June 
        19th, commonly known as ``Juneteenth Independence Day'', as the 
        anniversary of their emancipation;
Whereas African Americans from the Southwest continue the tradition of 
        celebrating Juneteenth Independence Day as inspiration and encouragement 
        for future generations;
Whereas for more than 150 years, Juneteenth Independence Day celebrations have 
        been held to honor African-American freedom while encouraging self-
        development and respect for all cultures; and
Whereas the faith and strength of character demonstrated by former slaves 
        remains an example for all people of the United States, regardless of 
        background, religion, or race: Now, therefore, be it
    Resolved, That--
            (1) the House of Representatives--
                    (A) recognizes the historical significance of Juneteenth 
                Independence Day to the Nation;
                    (B) supports the continued celebration of Juneteenth 
                Independence Day to provide an opportunity for the people of the 
                United States to learn more about the past and to better 
                understand the experiences that have shaped the Nation; and
                    (C) encourages the people of the United States to observe 
                Juneteenth Independence Day with appropriate ceremonies, 
                activities, and programs; and
            (2) it is the sense of the House of Representatives that--
                    (A) the celebration of the end of slavery is an important 
                and enriching part of the history and heritage of the United 
                States; and
                    (B) history should be regarded as a means for understanding 
                the past and solving the challenges of the future.
            Attest:

                                                                          Clerk.