On this day, Juneteenth, also known as “Freedom Day,” we CELEBRATE our independence and our future.
Following the police shootings of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor in the summer of 2020, which caused a national awakening on racial injustice and inequality, President Joe Biden proclaimed Juneteenth a federal holiday in 2021.
However, Black Americans have long known and felt the importance of the event and its celebrations.
Now that we understand that today is much more than just a “day off,” let’s look at five events where you can celebrate the national holiday!
1. Harlem, NY
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Starting off our list is none other than the 5th Annual Literary Festival held at The Schomburg Center for the Research in Black Culture!
On Saturday, June 17, the Schomburg Center will conduct its 5th Annual Literary Festival, which is annually hosted over the Juneteenth weekend, includes conversations, workshops, and book signings with both established and up-and-coming writers from the Black Diaspora.
As part of the event’s “Literacy is Generational Wealth” theme, authors Sarah Ladipo Manyika, Cynthia Manick, Henry Threadgill, and Nana Ekua Brew-Hammond will be giving book talks.
2. Washington D.C.
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Indoor and outdoor activities for families will be held at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture on June 17th.
Families can also see a 30-minute presentation of “History Alive!: USCT: Juneteenth: What It Means, and Why We Celebrate” on the same day.
3. Atlanta
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People can see the annual Juneteenth Atlanta Parade as it marches past Centennial Olympic Park on Marietta Street. The Juneteenth Music Festival will have live music, entertainment, activities, and refreshments to help the community celebrate Freedom Day.
On June 18th, the 5K Freedom Run will be held at Juneteenth Atlanta, which simultaneously hosts the parade and festival.
4. Chicago
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A village-themed celebration of freedom and unity will be held in Bronzeville in observance of Juneteenth.
Live entertainment, interactive games, as well as work from regional artists and small businesses, will all be part of the day’s family-friendly event. Additionally present will be historians and creatives who will share anecdotes and works of art honoring the emancipation from slavery.
5. Los Angeles
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Come on over to Academy LA for a jam-packed afternoon of sets by renowned DJs spinning hip hop, R&B, afro-beats, reggaetón, nostalgia, and deep house.
People can anticipate food vendors like Vurger Guyz, NY Chopped Cheese, and others!