City of Statesville Proclaims June 19, 2026 as Juneteenth

City of Statesville, North Carolina

Office of the Mayor

Proclamation

Juneteenth

June 19, 2026

WHEREAS, on June 19, 1865, Union Soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the freedom of enslaved African Americans, marking the effective end of slavery in the United States; and

WHEREAS, Juneteenth commemorates a pivotal moment in our nation's history and provides an opportunity to reflect upon the struggles, sacrifices, and resilience of African Americans throughout generations; and

WHEREAS, this observance honors the pursuit of freedom, recognizes the enduring contributions of African Americans to our nation, state, and community, and

WHEREAS, Juneteenth encourages all Americans to learn from our shared history, acknowledge both the progress achieved and the challenges that remain, and affirm our commitment to the principles of liberty, equality, and justice; and

WHEREAS, the City of Statesville values the diversity of its residents and recognizes that understanding our history strengthens our community and helps foster mutual respect, civic engagement, and unity; and

WHEREAS, the observance of Juneteenth provides an opportunity for residents to come together in remembrance, celebration, education, and service, while honoring the ideals upon which our nation was founded;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, J. Douglas Hendrix, Mayor of the City of Statesville, do hereby proclaim June 19, 2026, as JUNETEENTH in the City of Statesville and encourage all citizens to observe this day through reflection, education, cultural appreciation, and community involvement as we celebrate freedom and continue working toward a more equitable and united future. 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF I have set my Hand and caused the Great Seal of the City of Statesville to be affixed this 15th day of June 2026.

J. Douglas Hendrix, Mayor

View the Juneteenth proclamation here.