Missouri § 9.161 - Emancipation Day established.
Full text of Missouri Revised Statutes of Missouri § 9.161 — Emancipation Day established., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 9.161. Emancipation Day established.
1. June nineteenth, known as Juneteenth, of each year shall be known and is designated as "Emancipation Day" to provide an opportunity for the people of Missouri to reflect upon the United States of America's passion for freedom as exemplified in the Constitution of the United States, the Bill of Rights, and the Emancipation Proclamation, and to reflect upon the significance and particularity of the Emancipation Proclamation and its role in ending slavery in the United States. To celebrate that Juneteenth commemorates the spirit and quest of African-American freedom emphasizing education, art, and intellectual achievement, through reflection, rejoicing, and manifestation of a more substantive economic and just citizenry, the people of the state, offices of government, and all educational, commercial, political, civic, religious, and fraternal organizations in the state are requested to devote some part of the day to remember the proclamation that began the full realization for all people in the United States of the self-evident truth, as stated in the Declaration of Independence of the United States, that all men are created equal, by:
(1) Celebrating the abolishment of slavery, accomplished by ratification of the thirteenth amendment to the Constitution of the United States, as the former slaves celebrated on June 19, 1865, upon learning the message of freedom from Major General Gordon Granger of the Union Army in Galveston, Texas, which celebration, known as "Juneteenth", is the oldest known celebration of the ending of slavery; and
(2) Reaffirming their commitment to achieving equal justice and opportunity for all citizens.
2. There is hereby established the "Missouri Juneteenth Heritage and Jazz Festival and Memorial". Any funds appropriated by the general assembly for this event shall be used to establish a statewide festival and monument to commemorate the struggles and hardships endured by those who had been enslaved.
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(L. 2003 H.B. 640)
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Frequently Asked Questions About Missouri § 9.161
What does Revised Statutes of Missouri § 9.161 cover?
Section 9.161 ("Emancipation Day established.") is part of the Revised Statutes of Missouri, the codified statutory law of Missouri. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Missouri § 9.161?
A common citation format is "Revised Statutes of Missouri § 9.161" (Missouri). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Missouri law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Missouri official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Missouri attorney.
How does Missouri § 9.161 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Missouri can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Missouri.