At its June 17 meeting, the Board of Supervisors proclaimed June 19 as Juneteenth and encourages all residents to observe the holiday through reflection, learning, and participation in community events.
The proclamation reads:
WHEREAS, the United States was founded on the principle that all people are created equal and are entitled to freedom and justice; and
WHEREAS, on June 19, 1865—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued—Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to enforce the end of slavery, freeing the last enslaved people in the Confederacy; and
WHEREAS, this day became known as Juneteenth, a time to honor the end of slavery in the United States and to celebrate African American history, resilience, and achievement; and
WHEREAS, Juneteenth has been commemorated for over 150 years and is now recognized as a federal, state, and Black Hawk County holiday; and
WHEREAS, we recognize that many continue to reflect on the legacy of slavery and the ongoing pursuit of equity and belonging in American life; and
WHEREAS, Black Hawk County is home to the highest proportion of Black residents in Iowa and has a longstanding tradition of celebrating Juneteenth through community-led events and education; and
WHEREAS, Black Hawk County recognizes Juneteenth as a time for staff and the broader community to celebrate freedom, reflect on our nation's history, and continue working toward the promise of liberty and equality for all
WHEREAS, 2025 marks 30 years of Juneteenth celebrations in Black Hawk County, including this year’s celebration, June 21-22 at Sullivan Park in Waterloo, and other community gatherings across the county;
NOW, THEREFORE, the Black Hawk County Board of Supervisors does hereby proclaim its continued observance of Juneteenth as a County holiday on June 19, and invites all residents to honor its meaning through learning, reflection, and participation in community celebrations.
