Press Releases

Today, Representative G. K. Butterfield (NC-01), Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), issued the following statement in observance of the 150th year celebration of Juneteenth.

“On June 19, 1865, the Emancipation Proclamation was read by U.S. Army Major Gordon Granger in Galveston, Texas to slaves who were unaware of the original issuance and reading by President Abraham Lincoln two years prior.  This day is referred to as Juneteenth and today, we commemorate 150 years since the historic event.  Juneteenth is a significant date in American history and marks the date of freedom for the millions who were liberated by the Proclamation.

“History serves as a blueprint from which we learn, and we recognize that our country has made great strides in race and freedom.  But, still much work remains.  It is just as important today as it was 150 years ago that we continue our work to ensure all Americans are treated fairly and equitably under the law and each have an opportunity to achieve the American dream.”

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Since its establishment in 1971, Members of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) have joined together to empower America’s neglected citizens and address their legislative concerns. For more than 40 years, the CBC has consistently been the voice for people of color and vulnerable communities in Congress and has been committed to utilizing the full Constitutional power and statutory authority of the United States government to ensure that all U.S. citizens have an opportunity to achieve the American Dream. To learn more about the Congressional Black Caucus, visit http://cbc-butterfield.house.gov.

Media inquiries: Candace L. Randle at (202) 593-1331 or Candace.Randle@mail.house.gov