HomeMy WebLinkAboutPRO-2025-019-Juneteenth Freedom Day Proclamation 1110 �a qj u i f u ; (0l305
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING JUNETEENTH 2O25
WHEREAS , Orange County has recognized Juneteenth as the moment when freedom finally
reached all enslaved African Americans , marked by the arrival of Union troops in Galveston ,
Texas more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation — reminding us of the
strength of those who , even in bondage , sowed the seeds of liberation and began reuniting
their families in the aftermath of slavery ; and
WHEREAS , the Board has reflected on Juneteenth as both a celebration and a solemn
reminder of the long struggle for true freedom — recognizing that the end of slavery did not
immediately bring justice , and that Black Americans have continuously led efforts to expand
the meaning of democracy and belonging for all ; and
WHEREAS , the 2025 Juneteenth celebration , themed "Where Freedom Gathers , We Rise , "
builds on this legacy by uplifting the stories of Black families who persevered after
emancipation and continue to shape our communities through generations of strength ; and
WHEREAS , this year' s events honor the service and sacrifices of Black veterans who fought
for freedom abroad while being denied it at home — demonstrating unwavering commitment
to justice in the face of systemic exclusion ; and
WHEREAS , Orange County affirms the essential role of youth in imagining and shaping a
better future , and we commit to listening to their voices and supporting their leadership as
builders of what' s next ; and
WHEREAS , we are reminded by the words of Frederick Douglass : " It is easier to build strong
children than to repair broken men , " — a call to nurture young people as an act of ongoing
liberation ; and
WHEREAS , the June 13 , 2025 Orange County Juneteenth celebration will offer opportunities
to gather and learn together — creating space for connection , remembrance , and shared
purpose ;
NOW, THEREFORE , BE IT PROCLAIMED , that we , the Orange County Board of
Commissioners , honor Juneteenth as a living tradition — a reminder of how far we 've come ,
and a commitment to continue building a community rooted in truth , dignity , and repair.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED , that we proclaim Thursday , June 19 , 2025 as JUNETEENTH
FREEDOM DAY in Orange County , North Carolina , and encourage all residents to take part
in commemorating this historic day — by learning from the past , gathering in the present , and
carrying the work of freedom forward .
This , the 3rd day of June 2025 . ���
tz i � J ezett edford , Chair
Orange County Board of Commissioners