Richard Jefferson, legislator who wrote bill honoring Juneteenth, dies at 90 He led an effort to recognize Juneteenth in Minnesota. July 5, 2021 8:57pm Text size Copy shortlink:
Decades before June 19 became a federal holiday, a Minneapolis legislator successfully led the charge for Minnesota to honor the day.
Richard H. Jefferson was a state legislator, chemist and advocate for the city of Minneapolis who as a state representative authored the bill that made Minnesota the fourth state in the country to recognize Juneteenth. Remembered for his sense of humor, his ability to connect with people and his dedication to his north Minneapolis community, Jefferson died June 28. He was 90.