Resolution 2324-44

RESOLUTION OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF PETALUMA CITY ELEMENTARY AND PETALUMA JOINT UNION HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICTS (“PETALUMA CITY SCHOOLS”), DECLARING JUNE 19TH, 2024 AS JUNETEENTH.

WHEREAS, the United States Congress has designated June 19 as “Juneteenth Independence Day” and Juneteenth is now celebrated in nearly every state in the nation as a special day of observance in recognition of the emancipation of all slaves in the United States; and

WHEREAS, news of the end of slavery did not reach the frontier areas of the United States, in particular the State of Texas and the other southwestern states, until months after the conclusion of the Civil War, more than 2.5 years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on Jan. 1, 1863; and

WHEREAS, on June 19, 1865, Union soldiers, led by Major General Gordon Granger, arrived in Galveston, Texas, with news that the Civil War had ended and the enslaved were free; and

WHEREAS, African Americans who had been enslaved in the Southwest celebrated June 19, commonly known as Juneteenth Independence Day, as inspiration and encouragement for future generations; and

WHEREAS, African Americans from the Southwest have continued the tradition of observing Juneteenth for more than 150 years; and

WHEREAS, Black history is a part of American history and as educational leaders we have a responsibility to educate students throughout the entire year about the contribution of African Americans; and

WHEREAS, Juneteenth is an opportunity for the people of the United States—regardless of race, ethnicity, or background—to learn more about the past, to better understand and reckon with the experiences that have shaped the United States, and to recognize that the observance of the end of slavery is part of the history and heritage of the United States; and

WHEREAS, the Petaluma City Schools Board of Education recognizes that each student needs an opportunity to understand the common humanity underlying all people; to develop pride in their own identity and heritage; and to understand, respect, and accept the identity and heritage of others; now

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED,  the Petaluma City Schools Board of Education recognizes June 19th, 2024 as Juneteenth and remains committed to celebrating diversity, addressing inequities, and establishing safe environments in our schools and community.

The foregoing resolution was introduced by Board Member Cloud who moved its adoption, seconded by Member Paun and adopted by the following vote: 

CLOUD:  Aye GEN: Aye PAUN: Aye QUINN: Aye WEBSTER: Absent

WHEREUPON, the President declared the above resolution adopted and SO ORDERED this 28th day of 2024.

Caitin Quinn, President, Board of Education

ATTEST:

Matthew Harris, Secretary