Assembly adopts Juneteenth resolution after wide floor support

The California State Assembly on May 7 adopted Assembly Concurrent Resolution 214 recognizing June 19 as Juneteenth Freedom Day.

Assemblymember Brian introduced the measure, saying Juneteenth "is a celebration of freedom" and urging members to reflect on the ongoing work to secure equal opportunity. Multiple lawmakers from several caucuses rose in support, framing the resolution as both a celebration and a call to continue addressing racial inequities.

Assemblymember Ward said the day “commemorates the day when final enslaved Black Americans in Galveston, Texas learned of their freedom more than 2 years after the Emancipation Proclamation,” and the California Legislative Jewish Caucus expressed solidarity. Assemblymember Jackson, speaking for the California Native American Legislative Caucus, described Juneteenth as a time to "remember those who struggled and sacrificed" and to recommit to justice. Assemblymember Bonta, a coauthor, said the day reflects "black and brown solidarity" and warned that "justice too long delayed is justice denied." Assemblymember Wynne recalled a public Juneteenth concert and urged members to remember the vote as part of a longer struggle for equality.

The Clerk opened the roll to add coauthors; the Clerk reported 66 coauthors were added. The resolution was adopted by voice vote. The Assembly provided brief remarks honoring the day and then moved on to other business.