BOS proclamation recognizes Juneteenth holiday

Ms. Graves shared details about the 31st annual Juneteenth Celebration taking place June 19-21. Her presentation can be watched on YouTube or download the schedule of the events.

Proclamation

WHEREAS, the United States was founded on the principle that all people are created equal and are entitled to freedom and justice; and

WHEREAS, on June 19, 1865—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued—Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, bringing freedom to the last enslaved people in the Confederacy; and

WHEREAS, this day became known as Juneteenth, a time to honor the end of slavery in the United States and to celebrate African American history, resilience, and achievement; and

WHEREAS, Juneteenth has been commemorated for over 150 years and is now recognized as a federal, state, and Black Hawk County holiday; and

WHEREAS, the holiday invites us to reflect on the legacy of slavery and continue working toward a stronger and more just society; and

WHEREAS, Black Hawk County is home to the highest proportion of Black residents in Iowa and has a longstanding tradition of celebrating Juneteenth through community-led events and education; and

WHEREAS, Black Hawk County observes Juneteenth as a time for employees and the community to celebrate freedom, learn from our history, and recommit to the promise of liberty and equality for all; and

WHEREAS, 2026 marks 31 years of Juneteenth celebrations in Black Hawk County, including this year’s celebration, June 19-21 at Sullivan Park in Waterloo, and other community gatherings across the county; and

NOW, THEREFORE, the Black Hawk County Board of Supervisors does hereby proclaim its continued observance of Juneteenth as a county holiday on June 19, and invites county residents to honor its meaning through learning, reflection, and participation in community celebrations.