American history was alive and well as New Haven politicians, marking the 145th anniversary of the independence of slaves in Texas and everywhere in America, gathered on the steps of City Hall to celebrate Juneteenth.
Former West Rock Alderman Nathan L. Joyner poured a libation of water, and Newhallville Alderwoman Rev. Katrina D. Jones offered a “Prayer for the Ancestors,” as 12 citizens and fellow aldermen watched from the steps. Click on the video to watch. Longtime black community activist Clifton Grave was pulled from the audience by Jones to speak; Aldermen Carl Goldfield and Jorge Perez also spoke.
Jay Dockendorf Photo
Clifton Graves
Juneteenth, the oldest known celebration commemorating the end of slavery in the United States, became an official state holiday in Texas in 1980. Legislation pending in the U.S. Senate calls for its national recognition, according to Alderwoman Jones. The day celebrates the signing of “General Order Number 3” in Texas on June 19, 1865, after the end of the Civil War. The order outlawed slavery in its last known holdout in the United States. Connecticut is one of 36 that recognize Juneteenth as an official holiday, according to Juneteenth.us.