Sheila Jackson Lee: “I wish my colleagues a happy Juneteenth. I hope they will celebrate Juneteenth as we leave for this Juneteenth…”

“I wish my colleagues a happy Juneteenth. I hope they will celebrate Juneteenth as we leave for this Juneteenth commemoration. H. Res. 1001, my resolution to recognize Juneteenth, June 19, was introduced on June 15, 2020. The resolution garnered 214 of my colleagues as cosponsors, and it led to the introduction of the first Juneteenth National Independence Act, my bill, H.R. 7232, on June 18, 2020. In the 117th Congress, we introduced again the Federal holiday on February 25, 2021. I was asked by Senator Markey to introduce the Senate companion to my bill in the United States Senate. Mr. Speaker, that year was the golden year. That led to both Houses supporting the legislation and being signed by the President of the United States. How significant this was that General Granger made a visit to Galveston 2 years after the Emancipation Proclamation to indicate to those slaves--still slaves--you are free. This is a day of jubilation. This is a day of freedom. It is a holiday for all Americans. The 12th holiday here in the United States; 38 years after the last holiday. I encourage the Nation to celebrate it. I thank Reginald Adams for a wonderful mural. I thank Representative Edwards for putting that forward in the State of Texas. Happy Juneteenth. Celebrate it. Mr.…”