Broward County Commission Regular Meeting
Director's Name: Dale V.C. Holness
Department: County Commission
Information
Requested Action
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MOTION TO DIRECT Office of the County Attorney to prepare a Resolution amending Section 14.227 of the Broward County Administrative Code (“Administrative Code”) to designate June 19, also known as Juneteenth, as an official paid holiday for Broward County. (Commissioner Holness)
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Why Action is Necessary
Required to permit Board direction to the Office of the County Attorney to prepare an amendment to the Administrative Code.
What Action Accomplishes
Directs the Office of the County Attorney to draft an amendment to the Administrative Code to designate June 19, also known as Juneteenth, as an official paid holiday for employees of Broward County.
Is this Action Goal Related
No
Previous Action Taken
Summary Explanation/Background
On January 1, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, announcing that slaves shall be “forever free.” Over two years later, on June 19, 1865, the Union Army informed the enslaved African Americans of their freedom and that the Civil War had ended. June 19, also known as Juneteenth, commemorates this event and celebrates the end of slavery in the United States. It is an opportunity for all Americans to celebrate freedom and equal rights.
Several states and municipalities, including New York, Virginia, New Jersey, New York City, Massachusetts, and Portland, have recognized Juneteenth as a paid day of leave for their employees. Additionally, Miami-Dade County and local municipalities, such as Tamarac and Pembroke Pines, have recognized and designated Juneteenth as a paid holiday.
The proposed amendment to the Administrative Code would designate June 19 as a paid holiday for full-time and part-time County employees.
Source of Additional Information
Heidi Richards, Chief of Staff, District 9, 954-357-7009
Fiscal Impact
Fiscal Impact/Cost Summary
To be determined.