Bill · S.Res. 781· Senate(119-SRES-781)

A resolution commemorating June 19, 2026, 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: 6/18/2026
Last activity: 7/27/2026 — Resolution agreed to in Senate without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S4286)
Sponsored by: John Cornyn
Cosponsors: - 7 - 13

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, 2026, 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 in 1865. The measure acknowledges the historical significance of this day to the United States. It also supports continued nationwide celebrations of the holiday. Finally, it recognizes the observance of the end of slavery as part of the nation's history and heritage.

Yes

Would Black Americans be better off under this?+5
The measure honors the history of African American freedom and the significance of Juneteenth to the community.
Does this narrow racial gaps in how people are treated?+3
The resolution recognizes the historical significance of the end of slavery and the importance of Juneteenth to African American history and heritage.
Would white Americans be better off under this?+1
The resolution aims to provide all people of the United States with a better understanding of the nation's shared history.