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33 However, the recognition of Juneteenth Day is not merely an opportunity to celebrate a milestone <br />34 event in Black history, but an opportunity to recognize a critical turning point in American history. It <br />35 provides context as a considerable and formative part of American history that still informs debates, <br />36 policies and practices we have today. Juneteenth serves as a celebration of progress made toward <br />37 freedom and rights, and a reminder of the work still necessary to ensure and equitable future for all. <br />38 <br />39 Juneteenth Day has been celebrated since 1866, however it has not been recognized by Federal, <br />40 State, and Local governments until recently. The legacy and trauma of slavery continue to directly <br />41 impact Black individuals and the Black community. The Federal Government, States (including <br />42 Minnesota), and local governments (including Roseville) have for many years maintained laws, <br />43 policies, programs, and systems that directly discriminated against black, indigenous, and persons of <br />44 color (BIPOC) which resulted in significant barriers for members of BIPOC communities to <br />45 succeed. As an organization, the City of Roseville is on a journey to rectify those wrongs through the <br />46 creation of a Strategic Racial Equity Action Plan and undertaking tangible efforts. Declaring <br />47 Juneteenth Day as a City holiday, will provide an opportunity for the community, city employees, <br />48 and policy makers to reflect on the legacy of slavery and strengthen their commitment to eliminate <br />49 the continuing systemic inequities in government and society. <br />50 S TAFF R ECOMMENDATION <br />51 Staff recommends authorizing the City Manager to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with <br />52 IAFF Local 5051 recognizing Juneteenth as an official holiday and increasing the bank of holiday <br />53 hours for employees recognized under the collective bargaining agreement. <br />54 R EQUESTED C OUNCIL A CTION <br />55 Authorizethe City Manager to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with IAFF Local 5051 <br />56 recognizing Juneteenth as an official holiday and increasing the bank of holiday hours for employees <br />57 recognized under the collective bargaining agreement. <br />Prepared by: Rebecca Olson, Assistant City Manager <br />Attachments: A: Memorandum of Understanding <br /> <br />Page 2 of 2 <br /> <br />