Tumwater proclaims Juneteenth; community leaders urge continued work on equity

Tumwater’s City Council read a Juneteenth proclamation at its June 16 meeting and welcomed three community speakers who urged the city to pair ceremonial recognition with concrete investment.

Mayor Leetta Dhoff read the proclamation, noting Juneteenth’s history and calling the community to “reflect on the past” and “continue to eradicate systemic racism.” The proclamation asks residents to join collective efforts to lift one another for “collective prosperity and liberty.”

Dr. Thelma Jackson, introduced by the mayor, linked the holiday to ongoing struggles over democracy and civil rights. She said the nation remains challenged by racism and rising white supremacy and framed present-day debates over voting access as part of a continuing fight: “We find ourselves again the target of so much racism and hatred and discrimination,” she said, urging reflection as the country marks its 250th anniversary.

Tana Reid, identified as president of the Thirstston County NAACP, said Juneteenth is personal and generational for many families and defended public commemoration against critics. “No one’s asking anyone to apologize for the actions they did not commit,” Reid said, adding that remembering full history helps correct one-sided narratives and supports equal opportunity for children.

Tumwater Equity Commission member Tina Krahov said the proclamation signals the city’s commitment to inclusion and described Juneteenth as “a profound, joyful and triumphant day” that connects the African American independence story with broader civic identity.

Council members asked staff to preserve the speakers’ remarks and to follow up; Joan (Council Member) asked that the council review the speeches to determine whether action or policy changes should follow the proclamation. The council also invited the speakers and staff to pose for photos after the proclamation.