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What
is the Juneteenth Holiday?
Freedom is a cherished word to all humanity, particularly to those in bondage. On January 1. 1863, as church bells extolled the news that President Lincoln had issued his promised Emancipation Proclamation, slaves and sympathizers in Boston, Washington, Richmond, New York, and other cities danced in the streets, sang praises unto God, and cried tears of joy. Over the past 20 years, Al Edwards' Juneteenth U.S.A. and the celebration of Emancipation Day, "Juneteenth," has emerged as primary symbols of African-American culture. From as far away as Japan the legacy of Juneteenth is celebrated. In keeping with the principle of Juneteenth, JUSA strives to educate individuals on the chronology of Juneteenth in order to build an appreciation for life and freedom. Juneteenth Celebrations were held informally for 114
years. In 1978 State Representative Al Edwards of Houston, Texas envisioned
that blacks could have a formal celebration of emancipation from slavery.
During his first year as a legislator, he authored the most meaningful
piece of legislation for the black community that had ever existed in
the history of Texas or any other state. He wrote and lobbied to get passed
into law the bill making June 19th a legal state holiday, the first official
black holiday in the United States. After numerous setbacks and hard work
Rep. Edwards pushed the bill through successful votes of the Texas House
of Representatives and Senate within the last twenty-four hours of Texas'
66th Legislative Session. At a memorable and historical ceremony on the
grounds of Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas, hundreds of supporters
witnessed the bill's being signed into law by Governor William P. Clements
on June 13, 1979. As a result of Rep. Edwards' efforts, Texans now witness
the "NEW CELEBRATION OF JUNETEENTH." an Official State Holiday.
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Al Edwards
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