24-emancipation
PROCLAMATION 2004-24
WHEREAS The spirit and intent of celebrating the 141st year of the Emancipation Proclamation is to strengthen our communities, promote economic growth, and move ahead confident over
our past accomplishments and prepare for the future; and
WHEREAS The African American citizens of Huntsville and Walker County in conjunction with a diverse group of fellow citizens are organizing a celebration with the hope that these events
will have a positive impact on the citizenry; and
WHEREAS the Emancipation Proclamation is historically significant and history is regarded as a means of understanding the past and solving the challenges of the future; and
WHEREAS For two and a half years, Texas slaves were held in bondage after the Emancipation Proclamation became official and only after General Gordon Granger and his soldiers arrived
in Galveston, Texas on June 19, 1865 , were African American slaves in Texas set free; and
WHEREAS Commemorating the 141st anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation highlights and reflects the suffering and progress of the faith and strength of character shown by slaves
and their descendants as an example for all people of the United States, regardless of background, religion, or race/ethnic origin;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY PROCLAIMED, by the power vested in me as Acting Mayor of the City of Huntsville, Texas, that:
JUNE 19, 2004
be declared:
“THE ANNIVERSARY OF THE EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION”
in Huntsville, Texas, and encourage all citizens to join in the celebrations as we continue to strive for unity, liberty, and justice for all.
PROCLAIMED AND SIGNED this the 19th day of June 2004.
________________________
Jack K. Choate, Acting Mayor