Villa Park proclaims June 19, 2026, as Juneteenth

Village President Kevin Patrick on June 19 read and signed a proclamation declaring June 19, 2026, as Juneteenth in the Village of Villa Park.

"Today, we recognize Juneteenth," Patrick said, calling the day one that "commemorates the end of slavery in the United States and celebrates freedom, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of equality." He urged residents to take time to learn about the day's significance and to reflect on the community's shared history.

Patrick noted the historical basis for the observance: "Juneteenth commemorates June 19th, 1865, the day when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas learned of their freedom more than 2 years after the issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation." He said the observance offers an opportunity to "recognize the struggles and contributions of African Americans, and celebrate the progress made towards a more inclusive and equitable society."

Reading the formal text, Patrick stated, "I, Kevin Patrick, Village President of the Village of Villa Park, Illinois, do hereby proclaim June 19th, 2026 as Juneteenth in the Village of Villa Park" and noted he had set his hand and caused the village seal to be affixed to the document.

The proclamation emphasized that communities across the United States gather on Juneteenth to honor resilience, promote understanding and reaffirm a shared commitment to freedom and opportunity. Patrick closed the brief proclamation with: "Happy Juneteenth, Villa Park."