TOLEDO, Ohio (WTVG) – Toledo Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz says he will declare June 10th (June 19) an official holiday in the city of Toledo and join similar actions by Lucas County Commissioners and the U.S. federal government .
He announced this on social media Thursday afternoon and said he would sign a proclamation that will make it official on Friday.
I am honored to encourage all Toledoians to observe #Juneteenth as an official holiday in the city #Toledo from now on. Tomorrow I’m going to sign a proclamation that will make this official. It will be published on @city_of_toledo Social media and in our weekly city newsletter.
– Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz (@wadekaps) June 17, 2021
Earlier Thursday, Lucas County Commissioners voted to make Juneteenth an official holiday in Lucas County just moments after President Biden signed the National Independence Day bill in June.
Juniteenth, celebrated on June 19th commemorates the end of slavery in the USA.
Commissioner Pete Gerken said he believes Lucas County will be the first county in the state to implement this recognition.
The board also urged state lawmakers to recognize it as a public holiday.
“I think there will be more activities to make people think about the importance … and talk to each other about how things can be improved,” said Commissioner Tina Wozniak.
Commissioner Gary Byers said the board was unanimous on this issue.
“This will lead to discussions. Understanding our history is critical to moving forward in a meaningful and fair manner, ”said Commissioner Gary Byers. “If our past is tarnished, that can’t happen. This is a unique step in the right direction. “
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