MICHIGAN (WKZO AM/FM) — Michigan is recognizing Juneteenth as a holiday for the 16th year.
On Wednesday Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued a proclamation declaring June 19th as “Juneteenth Celebration Day” in the state.
This commemorates the day back in 1865 when Union Army General Gordon Granger landed in Galveston Texas and read the federal orders, stating that all slaves were free.
In a written statement the governor said, “Juneteenth is a crucial day in our nation’s history to remember how far we have come and recognize how far we still have to go. During a time when communities of color are disproportionately impacted by COVID-19, and when the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery have shone a light on the systemic racism Black Americans face every day, we must work together to build a more equitable and just Michigan. I’m proud to declare June 19, 2020 as Juneteenth Celebration Day, and will continue to work tirelessly to create a state that is equal for all.”
Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II also released a statement adding, “We have seen Michiganders across the state continue to fight for their freedom and the freedom of others. This day, which marks when the final group of Black Americans understood that they were free, is an important reminder of the work that must continue to be done to deliver equity and opportunity to every community. I am committed to working every day to build a state that is representative and responsive to the people we serve.”
Acting as the date of emancipation, June 19th also became a long-standing day of celebration, meant to honor African-American resilience and the end of slavery.
Whitmer signed a similar proclamation last year and in June 2005, Governor Jennifer Granholm signed legislation officially designating the third Saturday in June as Juneteenth National Freedom Day in Michigan. Senator Martha Scott also sponsored a Senate bill to recognize Juneteenth as an official state holiday.
In the proclamation the governor says, “I encourage all citizens in the State of Michigan to participate in the Juneteenth Freedom Festival and celebrate African American history and culture, while continuing to promote diversity, equality and a strong sense of community in our state.”
The full proclamation can be found here.
