The 23rd Annual Iowa Juneteenth Observance
Theme for 2013
"The 150th Anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation:
Bridge to Freedom for All!"

Welcome to the Iowa Juneteenth Observance Website!

President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation was an important step on the path to freedom, liberty, and responsible citizenship for African-Americans following slavery.

The Emancipation Proclamation was a 'down payment' for the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments to the United States Constitution. These amendments officially outlawed slavery; broadened the definition of citizenship and overturned the Supreme Court's Dred Scott Decision of 1857 (declaring that those in slavery had no rights that the United States constitution was bound to respect); and declared the right of citizens to vote - regardless of race.

Juneteenth is important in this historical context because the first Juneteenth took place in Galveston, Texas on June 19, 1865 - following the official end to the Civil War.

Prior to the 13th Amendment, it had been 60 years since the United States Constitution was amended.

History is very important, and Juneteenth is history...that is why we exist...to promote the education of Iowans on Juneteenth history and to preserve that history for future generations!

2012 was my last year as the General Chairman for the Iowa Juneteenth Observance, as I step down - I want to thank everyone that I have met in my 22 years of leadership. I have priceless memories of the challenges and accomplishments along the way. I continue to serve the Iowa Juneteenth Observance as the State Advocate and Christopher (Chris) Johnson is serving as the newly appointed General Chairperson.

Chris has worked his way up the organization from the position as: a volunteer on the Logistics Committee, Chairman of the Logistics Committee; Vice Chairman and Senior Vice Chairman. He brings a lot of experience and commitment. His father is the deceased Chancey E. Mallett, Sr., who faithfully served the Iowa Juneteenth Observance and is honored as the Vice Chair Emeritus. Go to the Committee page on this site to see the 2013 Iowa Juneteenth Observance leadership.

Ask your employer, church, and any community-based organizations that you support to get involved with preserving an important part of Iowa and American history, the Iowa Juneteenth Observance!
We look forward to another great year serving YOU with empowering economic, social, and political events for all Iowans!
-----Gary Lawson
 

 

Chris Johnson, General Chairman

 

 

Gary Lawson, State Advocate

Founder and

General Chairman Emeritus

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