The city of North Las Vegas
The Juneteenth flag, left, was raised in North Las Vegas to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States.
Friday, June 4, 2021 | 10:36 a.m.
The city of North Las Vegas raised the Juneteenth flag on Thursday, commemorating the end of slavery in the United States.
The North Las Vegas City Council unanimously approved a resolution making June 19 “a day of remembrance of the past suffering of enslaved African Americans and celebration of their freedom, equality and enduring hope for the future.”
“The city of North Las Vegas commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and highlights the history, culture, and countless contributions they have and continue to have on the fabric of America,” the resolution says.
On June 19, 1865, slaves in Texas learned President Abraham Lincoln had signed the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863. The document freed Confederate enslaved people and was enforced as Union troops advanced during the Civil War. The 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which was ratified in 1865, abolished slavery nationwide.
"Juneteenth is a day that we come together, young and old, people of all races, to listen, learn and reflect on its true meaning," Councilwoman Goynes-Brown said. "It is a day that brings us one step closer to ending the vicious cycle of racism and injustices in this country. Juneteenth is a day that we pray for continued and eternal peace."
The Juneteenth flag will be raised at 10 a.m. June 7 at Las Vegas City Hall.
