PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, Juneteenth recognizes that on June 19, 1865, almost three years after President Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, Union General Gordon Granger announced in Galveston the freedom of all slaves throughout Texas, which read in part: “The people of Texas are informed that in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free;” and
WHEREAS, this announcement ended slavery in Texas; and
WHEREAS, Juneteenth is the oldest African American holiday, and in 1980, Texas established Juneteenth as a state holiday; and
WHEREAS, this Commissioners Court recognizes that the early Black inhabitants of Williamson County were brought here as slaves; and
WHEREAS, in the 153 years since General Granger’s Proclamation, the struggle against bigotry, hate, and violence continues today; and
WHEREAS, we believe that peace, love, and respect for one another and an emphasis on historical accuracy can overcome deep-seated mistrust and move our society towards a goal of a more inclusive and equitable community;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT PROCLAMED, that the Williamson County Commissioners Court hereby recognizes and proclaims, June 19, 2018 as:
“JUNETEENTH – TEXAS EMANCIPATION DAY”
in Williamson County, and encourages all Williamson County employees and residents to learn more about Juneteenth and support the noble purpose of this day.