Bill · S.Res. 290· Senate(119-SRES-290)

A resolution commemorating June 19, 2025, as "Juneteenth National Independence Day" in recognition of June 19, 1865, the date on which news of the end of slavery reached the slaves in the Southwestern States.

Age: 74 years

Texas

Introduced: 6/18/2025
Last activity: 6/25/2025 — Resolution agreed to in Senate without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S3536; text: 6/18/2025 CR S3475)
Sponsored by: John Cornyn
Cosponsors: - 13 - 16

Civil Rights and Liberties, Minority Issues

Introduced
Adopted by the Senate

A Senate resolution is the Senate speaking for itself: stating a position, honouring someone, or setting its own rules. Adopting it is the whole process. Once the Senate agrees to it, it is officially the Senate's word; it is not a law, so the House and the President have no part in it.

What this bill would do

This resolution commemorates June 19, 2025, as "Juneteenth National Independence Day." It recognizes the date on which news of the end of slavery reached the enslaved people in the Southwestern States. The resolution highlights that Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, to announce freedom. It notes that this day has evolved from a Texas holiday into a Federal holiday celebrated across all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Finally, the Senate aims to recognize the historical significance and the heritage associated with this observance.

Yes

Would Black Americans be better off under this?+5
The resolution commemorates the historical end of slavery and the significance of Juneteenth to African Americans.
Does this narrow racial gaps in how people are treated?+5
The resolution honors the end of slavery and promotes the recognition of African-American freedom and heritage.