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A JOINT RESOLUTION AND PROCLAMATION HONORING JUNETEENTH & THE INAUGURAL JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION IN THE CITY OF GAHANNA
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WHEREAS, On June 19, 1865, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued, Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, liberating enslaved African Americans. Today, we honor that pivotal moment in American history as Juneteenth, also known as Emancipation Day; and
WHEREAS, Juneteenth stands as a powerful reminder of freedom, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of justice and equity. We recognize the perseverance of those who fought for their freedom, condemn the abhorrent practice of slavery, and reaffirm our collective responsibility to ensure equity, justice, and opportunity for all; and
WHEREAS, On June 17, 2021, President Biden signed legislation establishing Juneteenth as a federal holiday, with Governor DeWine recognizing Juneteenth as a state holiday in Ohio, underscoring its national and local significance; and
WHEREAS, In that same spirit, in 2021, the City of Gahanna proudly designated Juneteenth as an official observed paid holiday for city employees, strengthening Gahanna’s commitment to honor this historic day and invest in values of inclusion and progress in our community; and
WHEREAS, On June 14, 2025, Gahanna held its inaugural Juneteenth Celebration in partnership with Visit Gahanna’s famous annual Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival. The celebration honored African American history and culture through a vibrant program of music, dance, art, storytelling, and community connection; and
WHEREAS, The theme of the 2025 celebration, “Honoring the Past, Creating Our Future,” invited all community members to reflect on our shared history while actively shaping a more equitable and inclusive future; and
WHEREAS, Gahanna’s inaugural Juneteenth celebration was made possible through the Gahanna Juneteenth Committee, a dedicated group of volunteer residents, whose thoughtful planning and creative efforts, including the Gahanna Black-Owned Business Passport, helped amplify local Black-owned businesses and brought the community together in a spirit of pride, partnership and unity.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT JOINTLY RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL AND PROCLAIMED BY THE MAYOR OF THE CITY OF GAHANNA, COUNTY OF FRANKLIN, STATE OF OHIO:
Section 1. That the Council and Mayor hereby recognize Juneteenth, June 19, 2025, in the City of Gahanna and commend the individuals and organizations working to advance equity, justice, and unity within our community.
Section 2. That the Council and Mayor express sincere appreciation to the Gahanna Juneteenth Committee for their vision, dedication, and service in coordinating the City’s first Juneteenth celebration.
Section 3. That the Council and Mayor thank all who attended the inaugural Juneteenth celebration and encourage all residents to continue engaging in efforts to build a more inclusive, equitable, and unified Gahanna.
Section 4. That this Resolution shall be in full force and effect at the earliest period allowed by law.