Foster Statement on Passage of Legislation Establishing Juneteenth as a Federal Holiday

Statement

Tonight, Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL) issued the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, which would establish June 19 (Juneteenth) as a federal holiday:

"I can't think of a more important moment in American history to celebrate than the end of slavery. Illinois has led the way by making Juneteenth an official state holiday. Tonight, I was proud to vote to make Juneteenth a federal holiday as well.

"Now more than ever, we can't afford to forget slavery's legacy on American history, and we should honor and celebrate the sacrifices made to end the horror of slavery in the United States. Juneteenth should serve as an opportunity for all of us to learn about our history, reflect on the progress we've made as a nation, and commit to the work we have yet to do to truly live up to our founding creed that all men and women are equal."

Having passed both the House and Senate, the legislation now heads to President Biden's desk for his signature.

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