WHAT IS JUNETEENTH?
“Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States.
From its Galveston, Texas origin in 1865, the observance of June 19th as the African American Emancipation Day has spread across the United States and beyond.
Today Juneteenth commemorates African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement. It is a day, a week, and in some areas a month marked with celebrations, guest speakers, picnics and family gatherings. It is a time for reflection and rejoicing. It is a time for assessment, self-improvement and for planning the future. Its growing popularity signifies a level of maturity and dignity in America long over due. In cities across the country, people of all races, nationalities and religions are joining hands to truthfully acknowledge a period in our history that shaped and continues to influence our society today. Sensitized to the conditions and experiences of others, only then can we make significant and lasting improvements in our society.”
Source: Juneteenth.com
JUNETEENTH RESOURCES
- Juneteenth Senses of Freedom: Exploring the Tastes, Sounds and Experiences of an African American Celebration — Join the museum’s Juneteenth celebration – during the entire month of June – and embrace the rich history of Freedom Day each week.
- National Association for the Advancement of Colored People: In 1865, the last slaves were freed. In 2024 and beyond, we continue to thrive.
- 23 Ways to Thoughtfully Celebrate Juneteenth
- Juneteenth reasserts role of Black freedom in U.S. historical narrative — A Q&A with Duku Anokye, an associate professor of Africana language, literature and culture in the School of Humanities, Arts and Cultural Studies at Arizona State University’s New College.
- The 1619 Project —A New York Times Magazine initiative that started in 2019 (the 400th anniversary of the beginning of American slavery) and focuses on slavery’s consequences and the contribution of Black Americans to the county’s national narrative.
- 25 books for kids and adults to celebrate Juneteenth and reflect on the history of slavery
JUNETEENTH EVENTS IN THE VALLEY
- Juneteenth at Phoenix Art Museum
- ‘Strength and resilience’: Carver Museum launches Juneteenth exhibit
- Maricopa’s Annual Juneteenth Festival
- Goodyear: Juneteenth Family Day
