Captivating tales, songs, and stories have been passed down through families of enslaved peoples - tales of resilience, courage, and the unyielding hope for freedom. With Juneteenth's recent acknowledgement as a federal holiday in the United States, we hope to amplify these stories with a sky full of lights and color.

Juneteenth, which recognizes the emancipation of enslaved peoples in the United States in 1865, was declared a federal holiday in June 2021. Celebrated on the 19th of June, many descendants of enslaved peoples commemorate this day through neighborhood events, picnics, and other community-led initiatives. Fireworks, a common symbol of joy and celebration, are yet to become a recognized part of this tradition.

We propose an addition to be made to amend RCW 70.77.395 of "the sell and purchase of consumer fireworks within Washington state from June tenth from twelve o'clock noon to eleven o'clock p.m each day from the eleventh thru June nine-tenth from nine o'clock a.m to nine o'clock p.m.
(2) Consumer fireworks may be used or discharged each day between the hours of twelve o'clock noon and eleven o'clock p.m. on the tenth of June and between the hours of nine o'clock a.m. and eleven o'clock p.m. on the tenth of June to the 18th of June, and on June nine-tenth between the hours of nine o'clock a.m. and twelve o'clock midnight, and between the hours of nine o'clock a.m. and eleven o'clock p.m. on June twentieth, and as provided in RCW 70.77.311.

In Washington state where this petition is based, we are asking local and state governments, tribal and firework companies to consider selling fireworks specifically intended for Juneteenth celebrations. We are looking for as many registered and non registered voters to sign this petition to show our local legislators the support this issue has amongst Washingtonians. The addition of fireworks to our Juneteenth festivities symbolizes not just our freedom, but the vibrant spirit of our community as well. 

Integrating fireworks into Juneteenth celebrations will not only serve to commemorate this historic moment each year, but will also facilitate a greater understanding and acceptance of the holiday's significance amongst the wider population. The change we propose allows for an expansion of Juneteenth celebrations and further establishes its recognition as an important American holiday. 

In honor of the freedom that Juneteenth stands for, let's light up the sky, inviting everyone to learn about, understand, and celebrate this historic day. Your signature can ignite a sky full of memories and hopes. Please sign this petition to encourage government, tribal and firework companies to approve and sell Juneteenth commemorative fireworks.