As of today, Governor Bill Lee has signed a ‘Juneteenth Proclamation’ “recognizing the end of slavery”. In a tweet, the governor has stated the proclamation has been signed to honor the day “as it represents the promise of a free and just society that is guaranteed for every Tennessean.”
Tennessee will recognize Juneteenth as a ‘cultural holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved Black people in the United States,” but the Governor has made no mention thus far regarding whether the holiday will be considered a state holiday by law. You can read the Governor’s proclamation below.
Lee has also stated that he plans to appoint members to the state’s Capitol Commission to address the removal of the Nathan Bedford Forrest bust displayed between the Senate and House chambers. No decision has been made as of yet.