Explanation
Title
To honor and celebrate Juneteenth Ohio 2005 June 18-19, 2005
Body
WHEREAS, Columbus City Council is pleased to recognize the 15th annual Juneteenth Celebration taking place Saturday and Sunday, June 18-19, 2005 at Franklin Park in Columbus, Ohio; and,
WHEREAS, Juneteenth is a family-oriented weekend of fun recognizing African-Americans' struggle for freedom. This year's event consists of a health pavilion; cultural marketplace; father's day tribute; talent show; children's pavilion and lots of local and national entertainment; and,
WHEREAS, Juneteenth is celebrated annually, on June 19 in more than 200 cities in the United States. Juneteenth, or June 19, 1865, is considered the date when the slaves in America were freed. Although the rumors of freedom were widespread before this time, the actual emancipation did not come until Gordon Granger rode into Galveston, Texas, and issued General Order No. 3 on June 19, almost two-and-one-half years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation; and,
WHEREAS, Juneteenth symbolizes the end of slavery. Juneteenth has come to symbolize for many African-Americans what the fourth of July symbolizes for all Americans -- Freedom. It serves as a historical milestone reminding Americans of the triumph of the human spirit over the cruelty of slavery. It honors those African-American ancestors who survived the inhumane institution of bondage, as well as demonstrating pride in the marvelous legacy of resistance and perseverance they left us; now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS: that we honor and celebrate Juneteenth Ohio 2005, June 18-19, 2005.