LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the White Plains Juneteenth Parade
on June 11, 2011

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend events which symbolize the historical, social and cultural
development of this great State and embody the spirit of the principles
upon which this Nation was founded; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commem-
orate the White Plains Juneteenth Parade, to be held on Saturday, June
11, 2011 in White Plains, New York; and
WHEREAS, Juneteenth is the oldest-known celebration commemorating the
final implementation of the Emancipation Proclamation; and
WHEREAS, This celebration began on June 19, 1865, the date Union
soldiers under the command of Major General George Granger arrived in
Galveston, Texas, with the news that the Civil War had ended and that
all slaves were free; and
WHEREAS, Juneteenth is a day, a week, and in some areas a month marked
with celebrations, guest speakers, barbeques and family gatherings; and
WHEREAS, While Juneteenth is a time for celebration, it is also a time
for reflection, education and self-improvement; celebration participants
listen to elders recount the past, attend prayer services, and learn
from educational speakers; and
WHEREAS, The treasured values of families united and wholesome enter-
tainment for all ages reflected in this event help to foster community
spirit and cooperation, as well as preserve the beliefs, ideals and
values of these United States; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the White Plains Juneteenth Parade on June 11, 2011, fully
confident that such procedure mirrors our shared commitment to preserve
and yet effect that patrimony of freedom which is our American heritage;
and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to White Plains Juneteenth Heritage Committee.