06/15/2026
The City of Martinez proclaims the Week of June 19, 2026 as Juneteenth Week! This important recognition highlights the significance of Juneteenth in our nation's history, and provides a moment to rededicate ourselves to the ongoing work of guaranteeing liberty and equal rights to all Americans. Thank you to Ra-Jae Tisdale, Amirah Miller, Camille Dumlao of the Black Student Union at Alhambra High School for accepting this proclamation, and we appreciate what they shared on the importance of uplifting the next generation.
Join us at the 4th Annual Juneteenth celebration at Waterfront Park! Join us Sunday, June 28th, from 11am - 2pm, to commemorate the abolishment of slavery in the US, as generations gather and acknowledge reunifying families after slavery with a hope of healing and having a better life. The City of Martinez is proud to sponsor this important community celebration of freedom and resilience.
Full Proclamation: Juneteenth Week
Week of June 19, 2026
WHEREAS, on June 19, 1865, more than two years after President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, word finally reached Galveston, Texas that slaves were free; and
WHEREAS, on June 18, 2021, President Joe Biden proclaimed Juneteenth as the 12th federal holiday to be observed on June 19th, and the City of Martinez likewise officially observes this holiday in recognition of its historic and cultural importance; and
WHEREAS, Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration commemorating freedom from slavery in the United States, celebrated with traditions handed down through many generations, including family gatherings and picnics, music, stories told by elders and local historians, speeches, and recognition of prominent individuals who have made significant achievements and contributions to the community; and
WHEREAS, it is a time for reflection and rejoicing, a time for assessment, self-improvement, and for planning the future, and a time to recognize the resilience shown by generations of Black Americans in the pursuit of justice and equality; and WHEREAS, residents are encouraged to join together in celebration of freedom, family, and community by embodying a spirit of peace, respect, and brotherly love, to honor and salute our City's rich cultural legacy and diversity, and to reaffirm our continuous call to action to advance equality and justice for all.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council hereby declares the week of June 19, 2026 as Juneteenth Week in the City of Martinez, and urges all residents to commit to rededicating ourselves to the ongoing work of guaranteeing liberty and equal rights to all Americans.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the City of Martinez to be affixed hereto on June 3, 2026. Brianne Zorn, Mayor