Whereas , The Civil War was fought to ensure that freedom was shared by all Americans, and on January 1, 1863, Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation which gave freedom to African Americans in the Confederate states; and,

Whereas , Freedom became a reality for African Americans in Texas on

June 19, 1865, two-and-a-half years after the Emancipation Proclamation; and,

Whereas , Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration of freedom for African Americans and is a celebration of freedom and justice for all Americans with a special emphasis on education, achievement, and tolerance ; and,

Whereas , Many communities across Michigan will come together to celebrate this day and will enjoy a spirit of peace, tolerance, and brotherly love; and now therefore be it,

Resolved , That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim June 19, 2008, as Juneteenth Freedom Day in Michigan, and I encourage all citizens to reflect upon the value of freedom.