6 Ways to Celebrate Juneteenth

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Juneteenth is the oldest celebrated remembrance of the ending of slavery in the United States. It marks the day when Federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas in 1865 to enforce the 13th amendment, which legally freed the enslaved people. This occurred two and a half years after the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, delivered the emancipation proclamation in which he declared that all people in the United States should be free. Texas was the last Confederate state to end slavery. 

As Juneteenth is approaching, there are many opportunities to learn more and participate in events to celebrate this critical moment in history. While Juneteenth celebrates the joy of freedom, it is also a time to acknowledge the painful history of slavery in America. 

Here are some links to nearby events to mark Juneteenth: 

13th Annual Unity in the Black Family Unit - June 17th - June 19th 

A fun festival with music, vendors and awards 

Juneteenth Celebration - June 18th 

Poetry and portraiture mini-workshop led by Q uentin Felton 

Sow the Seeds workshop led by Artist Dario Mohr 

Juneteenth Cultural Festival - June 19th 

Food, local Black vendors  

Juneteenth Arts Festival - June 18th 

Music and fun 

Juneteenth Parade and Festival - June 11th 

Exhibits and speeches   

Rotunda Gallery Exhibit: Juneteenth - June 6th- July 29th 

The NRAC Rotunda Gallery is holding an exhibit for Juneteenth