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Dane County Board recognizes Juneteenth as county holiday; resolution adopted unanimously
Summary
The board adopted Resolution 42 designating June 19, 2025, as Juneteenth in Dane County and reaffirming a commitment to equity. Speakers emphasized the holiday's local history and the need for funding to sustain celebrations.
The Dane County Board of Supervisors on June 12 adopted Resolution 42 recognizing Juneteenth in Dane County and encouraging county employees to treat June 19 as a day of service and reflection. The motion, offered by Supervisor Kagaya and seconded by Supervisor Chawla, passed by recorded vote of 30 in favor, with members absent noted in the clerk’s roll call.
The resolution sets out Juneteenth’s historical significance and recognizes local leaders who have organized the county’s annual celebration. Supervisor Kagaya highlighted the event’s 36-year history in Dane County and named organizers Annie Weatherby Flowers and Mona Adam Winston. At the meeting, Weatherby Flowers addressed the board and described the festival’s origins and financial needs, saying the first celebration began with $1,500 in seed money and that sustaining the event now requires ongoing funding and staff support.
Supervisors and speakers linked Juneteenth recognition to broader commitments in the resolution: reflecting on the legacy of slavery, acknowledging systemic inequities affecting African Americans in education, health and criminal justice, and committing the county to continued work toward equity.
The board’s action notes that the county already designates June 19 as a holiday for Dane County employees and encourages volunteering, supporting Black-owned businesses, and civic education on systemic racism.
The resolution does not authorize a specific budget appropriation; several speakers urged board leadership to consider stable funding and staffing to ensure the long-term viability of Juneteenth celebrations and related programs in Dane County.
