May 27, 2025 Story by: Editor
The Galveston City Council has voted to defer a resolution supporting the establishment of a National Juneteenth Museum on Galveston Island, opting to delay the decision to explore potential funding opportunities and address community concerns.
Councilwoman Sharon Lewis urged the council to put off the vote because of what she called a timely and significant opportunity to receive some major funding that could greatly enhance the scope and impact of the resolution.
Mayor Craig Brown seconded the motion, saying he has been contacted by new interested parties who are discussing very serious funding sources for the potential museum.
Councilwoman Sharon Lewis advocated for the postponement, citing a timely and significant opportunity to secure major funding that could enhance the project’s scope and impact.
The vote to defer passed 5-2.
The proposed resolution aimed to support the Juneteenth Museum Act of 2024, which directs the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution to study the creation of a Juneteenth museum on Galveston Island.
Background:
On June 19, 1865, more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, slavery officially ended in the United States. Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and delivered General Order No. 3, proclaiming: “The people are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property…” This historic moment marked the final chapter of emancipation in America.
On October 24, 2024, the City of Galveston City Council officially endorsed this effort led by Rep. Randy Weber (TX-14). Weber introduced the Juneteenth Museum Act of 2024 on November 20, 2024. This legislation directs the Smithsonian Institution to explore options for establishing a museum dedicated to Juneteenth in collaboration with Galveston and Texas officials.the
Original co-sponsors include: Reps. Henry Cuellar (TX-28), Michael McCaul (TX-10), John Carter (TX-31), and Kay Granger (TX-12), and Al Green (TX-9).
The council’s decision to defer the vote reflects a desire to ensure that the project is well-funded and aligns with community interests. Some council members expressed concerns about the city’s involvement in school district matters and emphasized the importance of community engagement in the decision-making process.
The council had previously approved a resolution supporting community engagement regarding the potential use of surplus property for the Juneteenth Museum and community center. This earlier resolution emphasized the importance of fostering community involvement without financially binding the city.
The deferral allows the city to explore funding opportunities and engage with the community to ensure that the proposed museum reflects the needs and desires of Galveston’s residents. The council’s decision underscores its commitment to fiscal responsibility and community involvement in shaping the city’s cultural landscape.
As discussions continue, the council will consider input from community members and stakeholders to determine the best path forward for the proposed National Juneteenth Museum.
Source: Galveston Daily News / Juneteenth Museum Act of 2024 / Ground News
