AL SJR157

Recognizes the historical significance and importance of June 19, 1865, when U.S. Army Major General Gordon Granger delivered General Order Number 3 in Galveston, Texas, officially ending slavery.

Notes that the Emancipation Proclamation (January 1, 1863) had minimal impact in Texas due to insufficient Union troops to enforce it until General Lee's surrender in April 1865.

Acknowledges that June 19, 1865, began the "Juneteenth" celebration tradition, which spread in the late 1800s and became an official Texas state holiday on January 1, 1980.

Recognizes that Juneteenth experienced a resurgence during the Civil Rights movement of the 1950s-1960s and has continued growing in popularity, celebrating African-American freedom and encouraging respect for all cultures.

Extends best wishes to participants in the Juneteenth celebration on June 19, 2011.