Reps. Murphy, Accavitti, Adamini, Anderson, Bieda, Byrum, Caul, Clack, Condino, Dennis, DeRossett, Drolet, Ehardt, Elkins, Farrah, Gieleghem, Gillard, Gleason, Hager, Hart, Hood, Hopgood, Huizenga, Hunter, Kolb, Kooiman, LaSata, Law, Lipsey, Meisner, Minore, Newell, O'Neil, Pappageorge, Phillips, Plakas, Richardville, Rivet, Sak, Sheltrown, Shulman, Smith, Spade, Stewart, Tobocman, Vagnozzi, Vander Veen, Voorhees, Waters, Wojno and Hardman offered the following resolution:

            House Resolution No. 286.

            A resolution to commemorate the 11th Annual Juneteenth Celebration & Festival in honor of Juneteenth Day.

            Whereas, It is a great pleasure and distinct privilege to join in commemorating the 11^th anniversary of Juneteenth Day in Michigan.  There will be commemorative of this day will be held on Thursday, June 17, 2004, at the State Capitol Building in Lansing, Michigan.  This year’s theme is “Beyond Emancipation Towards Empowerment"; and

            Whereas, The Juneteenth Celebration in Lansing was founded in 1993 by a few caring citizens who wanted to recognize this special day in history. It can trace its roots to the pioneering spirit of courageous men and women who first cleared the land and built the institutions and homes that make this nation a home for individuals and families seeking a secure and prosperous tomorrow; and

            Whereas, Juneteenth had its beginning on June 19, 1865, with the aspirations of its founders. On that day, when Union General Gordon Granger landed at Galveston, Texas, to present and read General Order No. 3, the nation of “liberty for all” became a reality as the Emancipation Proclamation to end slavery went into effect across the entire United States; and

            Whereas, By observing an anniversary like Juneteenth Day, we all learn a little more about our history. For the children of Michigan, there are even greater rewards, as they discover that they are part of the traditions of citizenship that will be with them their entire lives. With the wonderful gifts they share, the citizens of Michigan certainly have much reason for thanks and for optimism; and          

            Whereas, With ceremonies to celebrate history, the members and officers responsible for the 11th Annual Juneteenth Celebration & Festival will remember the vision of many people and the hours and years of commitment that have brought the group to this point. Fittingly, as we look to the past, we will also be casting an eye to the future and to the many ways in which Juneteenth Day will continue to reach out in our state; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body commemorate the 11th Annual Juneteenth Celebration & Festival in honor of Juneteenth Day. We express appreciation for its valuable role in the state of Michigan.