Political Quotes

“I rise today to recognize the 156th anniversary of Juneteenth. On Saturday, we mark 156 years since June 19, 1865, when MG Gordon Granger announced in Galveston, TX, that the Civil War was over and that enslaved people were now free. In his announcement, General Granger said: The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property. In commemoration of this momentous day, June 19 became known as Juneteenth. In the years following the Civil War and in the early 20th century, Juneteenth has been celebrated as a holiday of independence. While Juneteenth has been celebrated in States across the country, it carries a special significance in Texas, where Juneteenth celebrations began. In 1872, four men in Houston, my hometown, purchased the land for Emancipation Park, the oldest park in Texas, as the site for Juneteenth celebrations. In 1980, the State of Texas became the first State to make Juneteenth a State holiday. Today, 47 States recognize Juneteenth. I am proud to cosponsor the Senate resolution designating June 19, 2021, as Juneteenth Independence Day to honor the historical significance this day has in the United States. Juneteenth is an important day. It is a somber reminder of the original sin of slavery that our Nation inherited from colonial powers.…”