City Council Proclamation Celebrates Juneteenth 2024

ALBUQUERQUE - The City Council issued a proclamation recognizing and commemorating this year’s Juneteenth Celebrations.

Councilor Nichole L. Rogers sponsored the Proclamation, that cites the June 19, 1865 arrival of U.S. Army Major General Gordon Granger to Galveston, Texas to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation passed over 2 years earlier on January 1, 1863. Prior to the general’s arrival, enslavers continued to hold enslaved black people captive. The City hosted a day-long celebration on the Civic Plaza on Saturday, June 15.

“We remember this date as the day our entire nation was freed,” said Councilor Rogers. “This year in Albuquerque, our Juneteenth theme is ‘Reclaiming our Roots.’ Our events are not just a celebration of our freedom. Our Juneteenth activities are also designed to bring enrichment to our community and enhance our lives. This year’s Juneteenth provided assistance and resources to help build community resilience. I thank my fellow Councilors for their support of this proclamation.”

“Juneteenth” has been celebrated by the African American community long before it became a federal holiday on June 17, 2021. Also known as Jubilee Day, Black Independence Day, and Emancipation Day, the holiday has spread nationwide and is recognized across the globe. All 50 states and the District of Columbia commemorate Juneteenth as a holiday or observance, and at least 28 states including New Mexico and the District of Columbia have established Juneteenth as a permanent paid and/or official holiday: either through legislation or executive action.