FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 19, 2024
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Gov. Whitmer and Lt. Gov Gilchrist Celebrate Michigan’s 18th Annual Juneteenth Freedom Day Recognition with a Proclamation
LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II proclaimed June 19th as Juneteenth Celebration Day in Michigan to celebrate African American history and culture and commemorate the end of slavery in America. This year marks the 18th annual State of Michigan Juneteenth Freedom Day Recognition.
"On Juneteenth, we commemorate the end of slavery and recommit ourselves to fighting for a more just and equitable Michigan,” said Governor Whitmer. "I am proud that we have declared Juneteenth a state holiday in Michigan, and I am grateful to President Biden for making it a federal holiday for all Americans too. Today, let’s reflect on our history and renew our commitment to building a state where every Michigander can thrive. Together, we will foster a stronger sense of unity and keep getting things done that make a real difference in people’s lives."
“Juneteenth is a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of the African American community,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “As we celebrate this day, we honor the progress we have made and recognize the work that remains to build a more just and equitable Michigan. Together, we can continue to advance freedom and equality for all.”
“The celebration of Juneteenth marks the journey from enslavement to emancipation,” said Michigan Civil Rights Commission Portia L. Roberson. “As a member of the Michigan Civil Rights Commission, I honor the strength and resilience of the African American community and am reminded of the continued work needed to ensure equality and justice for all.”
“June 19, 1865, was pivotal time in American History, a time that must not be forgotten, but celebrated as it recognizes the hope, faith, and promise of black Americans,” said Black Leadership Advisory Council Co-Chairs Dr. Donna Bell and Christopher Burtley, Esq. “The Black Leadership Advisory Council commends Governor Whitmer and Lt. Governor Gilchrist for ensuring Juneteenth is not forgotten, and for recognizing the significance that is plays in the lives of Michiganders and Americans. We celebrate Juneteenth throughout Michigan to remember our ancestors who persevered through slavery and to inspire us all address the effects of the legacy of slavery on social equality.”
“Juneteenth is a great opportunity to reflect upon the many sacrifices of Black Union soldiers in the Civil War who fought for the freedom and dignity of Black Americans,” said Kim Trent, Deputy Director for Prosperity for the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO). “During Juneteenth and beyond, I encourage Michiganders to remember the countless sacrifices of those who helped to make emancipation possible and paved the way for LEO’s meaningful work to advance economic prosperity for all across the state of Michigan.”
Last year, the governor signed bipartisan legislation sponsored by state Senator Sylvia Santana and state Representative Helena Scott, declaring Juneteenth a state holiday for all state employees in Michigan. To view full release, click here.
June 19th commemorates the day in 1865 when Union Army General Gordon Granger landed in Galveston, Texas and read General Order #3, stating that all enslaved people were free, and that former masters and enslaved people were absolutely equal in personal and property rights. Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021 in the United States, reflecting its importance in the nation’s history and the ongoing pursuit of equality. This day has since evolved into a celebration of African American culture and heritage, recognizing the struggles and honoring the contributions of Black Americans throughout history.
Since taking office, Governor Whitmer and Lt. Governor Gilchrist have been committed to making Michigan a more equitable and just state:
- Quintupled the Working Families Tax Credit, benefitting half the kids in Michigan and putting an average $3,150 tax refund back in the pockets of 700,000 families.
- Enacted a mental health parity law that requires insurers to cover treatments for mental health and substance use disorder at the same level as physical health services to ensure protection and coverage for Michigan families that utilize mental health services.
- Signed a bipartisan bill investing $10 million in direct grants to support Community Violence Intervention initiatives across the state which will help tackle the root causes of violence in Michigan’s cities.
- Established the Racial Disparities Task Force and made “lasting structural change.” Released a report detailing progress made and actions still to be taken to close disparities.
- Made historic investments in K-12 schools—closing the funding gap, providing free meals for students, free preschool for all eligible 4-year olds including 8,600 Black children, additional resources for at-risk students, improved mental health, school safety, in-class resources.
- Invested hundreds of millions in entrepreneurs of color.
- Signed the bipartisan CROWN Act, banning hair discrimination.
- Created the Black Leadership Advisory Council to help tackle racial inequity in Michigan.
- Changed the face of our government and judicial system to make our decision-makers more diverse by appointing more than 500 Black Michiganders to boards, commissions, and full-time positions. More than 60% of appointees are women or people of color. The governor has also appointed 30 Black Michiganders to the bench out of 103 judicial appointments, including Kyra Harris Bolden the first Black woman on the Michigan Supreme Court.
- The administration has consistently invested in Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies, an initiative to address disproportionate racial impacts of maternal and infant mortality which has now grown by $90 million from FY 2021-FY 2024.
To view the full Juneteenth proclamation, please click here.
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