Recognizing The Historical Significance Of Juneteenth Independence Day

Floor Speech

RECOGNIZING THE HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF JUNETEENTH INDEPENDENCE DAY -- (Extensions of Remarks - June 20, 2007)

* Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Madam Speaker, I am proud to be a co-sponsor of H. Con. Res. 155, a resolution recognizing the historical significance of Juneteenth Independence Day. ``Juneteenth'' is celebrated annually on June 19th to recognize the full emancipation of slaves in the State of Texas. President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation freeing the slaves across the country on January 1, 1863. Unfortunately, slaves in Texas did not feel the effect of this monumental decision until 2 1/2 years later. The Emancipation Proclamation had little effect on African Americans in Texas due to the minimal number of Union troops that were present in Texas to enforce the new executive order.

* The Union troops led by General Gordon Granger landed in Galveston, Texas on June 19, 1865. Upon General Granger's arrival there was massive resistance from the slave owners, regarding the presence of Union troops in the State. Despite much opposition, Union forces soon became strong enough to influence and overcome that resistance. Granger said, ``The people of Texas are informed that in accordance with a Proclamation from the Executive of the Untied States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and free laborer.''

* Madam Speaker, the injustice that was committed against the African American slaves held captive against their will was immense, as was the injustice committed against those held past the captivity date. Had General Gordon and his troops not taken the initiative to make the trip to Texas, there is no telling when these slaves would have realized their freedom.

* I am compelled to recognize the historical significance of ``Juneteenth'' because the monumental date of June 19, 1865 represents the realization of freedom and justice for all. This date symbolizes the genius of our country's struggle to bring about a more perfect union, a struggle that continues to this very day. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support and recognize the historical significance of the Juneteenth Independence Day.

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