Juneteenth National Independence Day Act

Floor Speech

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Ms. WATERS. Madam Speaker, I rushed to the floor to be a part of absolutely indicating my support for this important legislation, the Juneteenth National Independence Day. I am so pleased that we take this step today to honor the day and the month that the information of the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation reached enslaved people in Texas. It took more than 2 years before the news reached them.

Juneteenth is a State holiday in the State of Texas. It was authored by my friend, Al Edwards, who is since deceased. I wish he was alive today to witness this debate that is taking place on the floor of the Congress of the United States that will lead to the passage of the legislation that will make Juneteenth a national holiday.

I was a little bit concerned when I heard some of the Members be opposed to the way that the bill is titled. They didn't like the word ``independence'' that is in there because these are patriots and they want to protect Independence Day and not have it mistaken in any way.

But where were these patriots when the Capitol was being violated?

Where were these patriots when the noose was hung, in plain view, for everybody to see, where slaves and people of color had lost their lives because they were hung, et cetera, et cetera?

I want you to know that patriotism should be demonstrated all of the time. If you cannot demonstrate your patriotism when your Capitol is invaded, when the insurrection took place, then I question your patriotism.

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