City of Statesville Proclaims June 19, 2024 as Juneteenth

City of Statesville, North Carolina

Office of the Mayor

Proclamation

Juneteenth

June 19, 2024

WHEREAS, Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, is a historic day commemorating the end of slavery in the United States; and

WHEREAS, on June 19, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the end of the Civil War and the emancipation of all enslaved people, over two years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation; and

WHEREAS, Juneteenth is a time to reflect on the struggles and achievements of African Americans throughout history and to celebrate African American culture, resilience, and contributions to our society; and

WHEREAS, the celebration of Juneteenth acknowledges a painful period in our nation's history and serves as a reminder of the enduring spirit and resilience of African Americans; and

WHEREAS, Juneteenth is an opportunity for all Americans to learn more about our common past and to better understand the experiences that have shaped our nation; and

WHEREAS, the City of Statesville is committed to promoting unity, equality, and the recognition of African American history and culture as vital parts of our shared American heritage;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, CONSTANTINE H. KUTTEH, Mayor of Statesville, North Carolina, do hereby proclaim June 19, 2024, as JUNETEENTH in the City of Statesville and encourage all residents to join in commemorating this significant day, to participate in activities that honor the rich history and culture of African Americans, and to commit to the ongoing work of achieving true equality for all.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have set my Hand and caused the Great Seal of the City of Statesville to be affixed this 17th day of June 2024. 

Constantine H Kutteh, Mayor