HomeMy WebLinkAbout2012-06-19 ProclamationCity of Iowa City
PROCLAMATION
Whereas, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation on
January 1, 1863, formally abolishing slavery in the United States of America; and
Whereas, word about the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation was delayed in
reaching many authorities and African - Americans in the South and Southwestern
United States some two and one half years, to June 19, 1865; and
Whereas, Emancipation Day observations are held on different days in different states
in the South and Southwest, and in other parts of the nation; and
Whereas, June 19th has a special meaning to African - Americans, and is called
"JUNETEENTH" combining the words June and Nineteenth, and has been
celebrated by the African - American community for over 147 years; and
Now, therefore, I, Matthew J. Hayek, Mayor of the City of Iowa City, Iowa, do
hereby declare June 19, 2012 as
JUNETEENTH
In the City of Iowa City, and urge all citizens to become more aware of the significance
of this celebration in African - American History and in the heritage of our nation and City.
Signed in Iowa City, Iowa,
this 19th day of June 2012.
Mayor