June 19, 2022, as ‘Juneteenth’
WHEREAS, June 19th, best known as Juneteenth or Freedom Day, marks the anniversary of the arrival of Union Gen. Gordon Granger in Galveston, Texas on June 19, 1865, where two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation, African Americans learned of the end of enslavement; and
WHEREAS, while Juneteenth marks the end of slavery, tragic acts of mob violence, convict leasing, voter disenfranchisement, mass incarceration, and much more have exposed the dehumanizing impact of racial violence that is still experienced and felt by many today; and
WHEREAS, historically, Juneteenth observances have not always received acknowledgement and recognition, though Juneteenth is a critical component of American history as it marks a turning point in our nation and a step towards equality; and
WHEREAS, only through collectively striving may we close gaps of immeasurable distance between us and affirm the promise of the Declaration of Independence that all people have the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; and
WHEREAS, acts of violence only tear us further apart while making the effort to understand and learn from one another and our shared history can bring us closer.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Pauline Russo Cutter, Mayor of the City of San Leandro, hereby declare June 19, 2022, as “Juneteenth” in the City of San Leandro and encourage reflection and cultural education that helps us to achieve equality and freedom for all.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the City of San Leandro to be affixed this 6th of June 2022.