Juneteenth

juneteenth meaning

On 11/16/21, the Lewiston City Council approved proposed amendments to the municipal Personnel Policies adopting Juneteenth (June 19th) as a city holiday.  The holiday commemorates the end of slavery in the United States of America.  

Prior to the approval, they heard a presentation from Melissa Hue, the City's Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, who provided historical information regarding the importance of Juneteenth observance. Mayor Mark Cayer, who along with councilors found the presentation extremely informative, asked that her narrative be shared here:  www.lewistonmaine.gov/Juneteenth