Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Community Culture topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
West Sacramento proclaims Juneteenth; River City High Black Student Union accepts proclamation
Summary
The City Council presented a Juneteenth proclamation and invited River City High School's Black Student Union officers to accept it and address the council about the event's importance and youth engagement in civic celebration.
The West Sacramento City Council on June 18 formally proclaimed June 19 as Juneteenth National Freedom Day in the city and invited members of the River City High School Black Student Union to accept the proclamation and speak about youth-led efforts.
Proclamation text and purpose: The proclamation acknowledged the historical significance of June 19, 1865, when Union General Gordon Granger issued orders in Galveston, Texas, enforcing emancipation, and it invited residents to observe the day as an occasion to reflect on the history and ongoing work toward racial equity.
Student remarks: Keanna Council, identified as vice president of the River City High Black Student Union, thanked the council for recognizing Juneteenth and described the day as part of "American history" that requires understanding and remembrance. "These continued wins signify the importance of celebrating Juneteenth and truly understanding the history behind it because it is American history," she said.
Council remarks: Council members and the mayor praised the students' civic engagement and the local Juneteenth celebration the city held June 13 at Bridgeway Lakes Park. A council member noted the city now provides Juneteenth as a recognized day off for staff, marking a recent policy change reflecting the council's commitment to inclusion.
Context and next steps: Council described the June 13 community Juneteenth event as its third annual celebration, noting growing attendance and partnerships with River City High and the city's youth programs. Council members encouraged continued youth involvement in future events.
