For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
June 19, 2002
Presidential Message
I send greetings to those celebrating Juneteenth.
June 19 provides an opportunity for all Americans to reflect on the
ideal of freedom and to learn more about the end of slavery. On that
day in 1865, Union soldiers led by Major General Gordon Granger landed
in Galveston, Texas, with news the war had ended and that the enslaved
were now free. The joyous, but belated, announcement came two years
after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation
declaring 'that all persons held as slaves -- within the rebellious
states -- are, and henceforward shall be free.'
The celebration of Juneteenth has its roots in Texas, but the
holiday is now observed in many parts of the country with picnics,
family gatherings, parades, and community programs. The day is a
fitting time to celebrate freedom from slavery and for all Americans to
reflect on the rich contributions of African Americans to our Nation.
As we celebrate Juneteenth on June 19, I encourage all Americans to
reaffirm their commitment to achieving equal justice and opportunity
for all citizens. Laura joins me in sending best wishes on this
special occasion.
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