In order to fully honor both the nine brave Charleston firefighters who tragically lost their lives on June 18, 2007 and the now federally recognized Juneteenth holiday, the city of Charleston will move forward tomorrow with its plan to memorialize the Charleston Nine, and then close city offices on Monday, June 21st in celebration of Juneteenth.
City spokesman Jack O’Toole said, “Juneteenth, June 19th, is an important new holiday for Charleston and for America, whereas tomorrow, June 18th, is a solemn day for the citizens of Charleston, as we remember the sacrifices of the Charleston Nine. We’re honored as a city to be able to properly memorialize both of these significant dates for our firefighters, our employees and our citizens.”
Also on Monday, Mayor John Tecklenburg will issue a proclamation in honor of Juneteenth Day in the city of Charleston.