Bethel First Selectman Matt Knickerbocker has issued a proclamation in recognition of Juneteenth.  The anniversary is the oldest known public celebration of the end of slavery in the United States.  The proclamation says the work is not done and called on everyone to rededicate themselves to the pursuit of justice, equality and opportunity for all, as set forth in the nation's founding documents.  Juneteenth came about after President Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1st 1863, and General Lee surrendered in April 1865.  News of the surrender finally reached Texas on June 19th 1865.