Texas made History once again in 1998 with the passing of House Bill 1216 which created the Texas Emancipation Juneteenth Cultural & Historical Commission (TEJCHC), sponsored by Representative Al Edwards of Houston Texas during the 76th Legislature 1997, the only commission of its kind in the country. The Commission is utilizing and working with numerous entities including the Texas Historical Commission, Attorney General, Texas Comptroller, and the Texas Register.

The Commission's primary objective is to erect a Juneteenth Memorial Monument on the South grounds of the State Capitol. This project is well underway with a design and funding in the works. TEJCHC will also place Juneteenth Monuments and Markers in various historical parts of Texas including Galveston, Texas. The Commission will also develop a Juneteenth Museum, Cultural and Educational institute, Recreation Center and Park, and plans to implement Juneteenth history into the Texas History schoolbooks.

The Commission is composed of six (6) Commissioners appointed by the Governor, five (5) Ex officio members, two (2) appointed by the Speaker of the House, two (2) appointed by the Lt. Governor, and the Executive Director of the Texas Historical Commission.

The first official meeting was held June 6,1998 in Austin, Texas. Representative Al Edwards called the meeting to order. Members present were Stella Roland of Austin, Eddie Richardson of Lubbock, Dr. Maceo Dailey of El Paso, Linda Tarr of Homton, Byron Miller of San Antonio, Willard Stimpson of Dallas, representatives were present for Sen. Royce West, Sen. Rodney Ellis, Rep. Patricia Gray. Larry Oaks of The Texas Historical Commission and Rep. Al Edwards were present.

The Commission unanimously elected Representative Edwards as permanent chair for the life or duration of the Commission. It is now functioning according to the directives set out in H.B. 1216 (State law), and will develop goals, objectives, plans, and time tables in order to be effective.

If you would like to get involved with Representative Edwards' and the Commission's efforts to bring Juneteenth history to our students and help fund the Juneteenth Monuments and Markers, please click here.

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