REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Proclamation of June 19, 2024 as Juneteenth in the City of Santa Clara
Report
BACKGROUND
Juneteenth celebrates the liberation of all Black Americans from slavery in the United States. On January 1, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which abolished slavery in the United States. For more than two years after, Black Americans were still denied freedom. On June 19, 1865, the Union Army arrived in Galveston, Texas to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation for 250,000 people still held in bondage.
Juneteenth is a day to recognize the power and resilience of Black Americans, who have endured generations of oppression in the ongoing journey toward equal justice, equal dignity, equal rights, and equal opportunity the U.S. It is a time to commemorate the abolitionists who dedicated their lives to delivering the promise of America for all Americans, and to honor the work of the activists who continue to fight for equity. The City of Santa Clara recognizes Juneteenth with the commitment to work toward racial justice in this community.
DISCUSSION
At the June 4, 2024 City Council meeting, the City Council will proclaim June 19, 2024 as Juneteenth in the City of Santa Clara. Representatives from PARTI (Positive Alternative Recreation Team Building Impact), will be present to accept the proclamation. PARTI advocates and supports youth in the region by helping schools and civic leader to develop action plans that foster diversity, equity, inclusion, and safer school climates.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This is an informative report only and no action is being taken by the City Council and no environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") is required.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact to the City other than staff time.
PUBLIC CONTACT
Public contact was made by posting the Council agenda on the City’s official-notice bulletin board outside City Hall Council Chambers. A complete agenda packet is available on the City’s website and in the City Clerk’s Office at least 72 hours prior to a Regular Meeting and 24 hours prior to a Special Meeting. A hard copy of any agenda report may be requested by contacting the City Clerk’s Office at (408) 615-2220, email clerk@santaclaraca.gov <mailto:clerk@santaclaraca.gov> or at the public information desk at any City of Santa Clara public library.
Staff
Reviewed by: Fiona Kirby, Management Analyst, City Manager’s Office
Approved by: Jovan D. Grogan, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS
1. Draft Proclamation - Juneteenth 2024