2023-2135 FILE RESOLUTION NO. 2023-2135
A resolution recognizing Monday, June 19, 2023 as Juneteenth in the City of Janesville.
WHEREAS, in 1619 a ship arrived in the British colony of Virginia bearing cargo of enslaved
people from Africa; and
WHEREAS, Black people were bought and sold as slave labor for 250 years and suffered
unspeakable acts of violence; and
WHEREAS, President Abraham Lincoln first issued the Emancipation Proclamation effective
January 1, 1863, freeing enslaved people in the south. However, many southern enslavers
ignored that order. On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas to enforce the
president's order, freeing enslaved people two and a half years after it was first decreed. This day
has since come to be known as Juneteenth; and
WHEREAS, other systems of oppression, such as sharecropping, Jim Crow, redlining, mass
incarceration, and anti-black violence throughout our Country's history; and
WHEREAS, Juneteenth is a day to reflect on both bondage and freedom. It is, in equal measure,
a remembrance of enslavement and subjugation, as well as a celebration of the promise of a
brighter morning to come. In continued effort to build equitable communities the City of Janesville
joins with YWCA Rock County and other institutions and individuals who are committed to
eliminating racism and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Janesville City Council on this 12th day of June,
2023, hereby recognizing Monday June 19, 2023 as Juneteenth in the City of Janesville and
encourages residents, local businesses, educators, and community and faith-based organizations
to celebrate diversity and advocate for the elimination of racism.
ADOPTED: June 12, 2023 Motion by: Jackson
Second by: Burdick
APPROVED:
Councilmember Aye Nay Pass Absent
Benson X
Kevin M. Lahner, City Manager Burdick X
Jackson X
ATTEST: Marshick X
Miller X
An/ Neeno X
Lorena Rae Stottler, City Clerk-Treasurer Williams X
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
‘e/&/-47/W
Wald Klimczy , City Attorney
Proposed by: City Manager's Office
Prepared by: City Manager's Office