Shaheen issues statement on first celebration of Juneteenth as federal holiday
WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) issued the following statement ahead of the first celebration of Juneteenth as a federal holiday:
“I’m thrilled to join Granite Staters and Americans around the country in marking our first celebration of Juneteenth as a federal holiday,” said Shaheen. “This historic day ensures we will never forget the United States’ painful legacy of slavery, while committing to leave no stone unturned to root out systemic racism and deliver a more just future in America. Today should also serve as a reminder of the immense contributions of African-Americans that have been erased or overlooked from our nation’s narrative. I encourage all Granite Staters to honor the lives and achievements of African-American men and women who shaped our nation, whether that’s by exploring the Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire, visiting the Seacoast African American Culture Center, or finding your own way to pay tribute to the incredible individuals whose stories belong in our collective history.”
Shaheen helped introduce legislation in the Senate last year to recognize Juneteenth as a federal holiday. To mark the 20th anniversary of New Hampshire’s first Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration, last year, Senator Shaheen honored the occasion and celebrated the life and accomplishments of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a Congressional Record statement. As Governor of New Hampshire, Shaheen fought for passage of, and signed, a resolution to recognize Martin Luther King Jr. Day in New Hampshire – the last state in the nation to do so. In the statement, Shaheen paid tribute to the late Reverend Dr. Arthur Hilson, whose powerful advocacy helped progress the resolution through the New Hampshire legislature.