For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
June 19, 2003
Presidential Message: Juneteenth, 2003
I send greetings to those celebrating Juneteenth.
In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation
Proclamation, declaring "that all persons held as slaves" within the
rebellious states "are, and henceforward shall be, free." This news
reached slaves slowly as word was passed by Union soldiers and
individual plantation owners. Almost two years later, on June 19,
1865, Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, to
declare the end of the Civil War and the freedom of the slaves.
Juneteenth commemorates General Granger's announcement and provides
an opportunity for people across America to celebrate the end of
slavery and the joy of freedom. On this day, I encourage all citizens
to learn more about the rich heritage of African Americans and their
many contributions to our Nation. With knowledge and understanding, we
will continue our efforts to ensure that our society provides the
opportunity for every person, of every race, to realize the promise of
America.
Laura joins me in sending our best wishes for a memorable
celebration.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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