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R E S O L U T I O N
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WHEREAS, Harold T. Thomas has proven himself to be a valued |
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supporter of the Juneteenth celebration in Galveston; and |
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WHEREAS, An official state holiday since 1980, Juneteenth |
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celebrates an important milestone in human rights in Texas, the |
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first reading of the Emancipation Proclamation in Galveston on June |
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19, 1865, by Union general Gordon Granger, which effectively freed |
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the 250,000 slaves in Texas at the end of the Civil War; and |
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WHEREAS, Mr. Thomas enhances his community through his |
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contributions as the publisher of the Galveston County Observer |
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News, the only African American newspaper serving Galveston County; |
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and |
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WHEREAS, This public-spirited citizen has provided |
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outstanding news coverage of the Juneteenth celebrations on |
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Galveston Island for more than 17 years; as part of that effort, he |
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has reported on the Ashton Villa Emancipation Prayer Vigil and |
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Breakfast and the Juneteenth Banquet at the historic Old Central |
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Cultural Center for the past 12 years, and his work in keeping the |
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public informed has contributed to increased participation in the |
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observance; and |
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WHEREAS, Through his dedication, Harold Thomas has helped to |
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heighten awareness of the history of Juneteenth for visitors and |
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residents of Galveston alike; now, therefore, be it |
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RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 81st Texas |
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Legislature hereby commend Harold T. Thomas for his outstanding |
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contributions in behalf of Juneteenth activities in Galveston and |
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extend to him sincere best wishes for continued success and |
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happiness; and, be it further |
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RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be |
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prepared for Mr. Thomas as an expression of high regard by the Texas |
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House of Representatives. |