[WASHINGTON, D.C.]--U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Carl Levin (D-MI) today introduced legislation recognizing the significance of June 19, 1865, commonly known as “Juneteenth Independence Day”.  The day commemorates the arrival of Union soldiers in Galveston, Texas with news that the Civil War had ended.  African Americans who had been slaves in the Southwest celebrated June 19 as the anniversary of their emancipation.  The legislation is co-sponsored by Senators Harry Reid (D-NV), Barack Obama (D-IL) and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI).  Representative Danny Davis (D-IL) has introduced a similar resolution in the House.

“As Americans, we can’t afford to forget the lessons learned from slavery and its terrible stain on our nation’s history,” Durbin said.  “Juneteenth reminds us to stay vigilant in our efforts to secure justice and equal opportunity for all Americans.  True freedom means equality for all citizens, regardless of race, religion or ethnicity.” 

“Juneteenth Day marks the time when slavery finally came to an end in the United States over 140 years ago,” said Levin.  “This anniversary of emancipation recognizes one of the most tragic periods of our nation’s history.  While the suffering, degradation and brutality of slavery cannot be repaired, the memory can serve to ensure that no such inhumanity is ever perpetrated again on American soil.”

“We solemnly mark this date as a significant milestone in the abolition of slavery,” said Reid.  “People around the world now look to June 19 – the anniversary of the very last day Americans were slaves in the United States – as an historic moment in the fight against injustice.  We commemorate Juneteenth to celebrate the triumph of liberty and the first day it was enjoyed by all people in every corner of America.  As we do so, we continue our work to ensure all Americans enjoy the liberties our nation promises.”

            “Juneteenth Independence Day symbolizes the extraordinary sacrifices that generations before us made for freedom,” said Obama. “While this resolution celebrates an incredible triumph over injustice, it also renews our commitment to ensuring equality and fairness for all Americans.”

“Juneteenth Independence Day marks an important day of celebration and reflection on the abolition of slavery over 140 years ago,” said Stabenow. “It’s hard to imagine that despite the adoption of the Emancipation Proclamation, many people across our country were still not free from the brutality of slavery until years later. We must keep the lessons of Juneteenth close to our hearts and utilize it as a day to recognize the abomination of slavery which stains our nation’s past. We should also recognize Juneteenth as a reminder of how far our nation has and continues to move towards a society in which all Americans enjoy equality.”