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“Let’s Talk About Juneteenth”: California Leaders Celebrate “Foundational” Legacy of American Holiday

June 24, 2025

California officials, including Governor Gavin Newsom and members of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC), commemorated Juneteenth last week with various statements and events recognizing the end of slavery in the United States. Assemblymember Isaac Bryan emphasized Black Americans' unique historical connection to the country as people who were forcibly brought as property rather than immigrants, while urging support for Assembly Concurrent Resolution (ACR) 90 introduced by Assemblymember Mike Gipson and other CLBC members. Governor Newsom issued an official proclamation acknowledging Juneteenth as a state holiday, highlighting that America's struggle for freedom continues to this day.

Who is affected

  • Black Americans and Black communities in California
  • California residents celebrating or acknowledging Juneteenth
  • Elected officials in California, particularly members of the California Legislative Black Caucus
  • Those attending Juneteenth celebrations in districts like San Diego

What action is being taken

  • Governor Newsom and Secretary of State Shirley Weber issued an official proclamation recognizing Juneteenth as a state holiday
  • Assembly members are considering Assembly Concurrent Resolution (ACR) 90 introduced by Mike Gipson and CLBC members
  • Senator Akilah Weber Pierson is attending Juneteenth celebrations in her district
  • California officials are making public statements commemorating and reflecting on the significance of Juneteenth

Why it matters

  • Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Texas finally learned they were free, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation
  • The holiday recognizes Black Americans as "foundational to the building of this country" as Assemblymember Bryan stated
  • It acknowledges the historical injustice of slavery and the continued struggle for equity and justice for Black communities
  • As a recently established federal holiday (2021) and California state holiday, Juneteenth represents official recognition of an important historical milestone

What's next

  • No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint

“Let’s Talk About Juneteenth”: California Leaders Celebrate “Foundational” Legacy of American Holiday