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Juneteeth

Celebrate African American Freedoms and Achievements

Sanity Rose
Juneteeth is the oldest day of celebration commemorating the end of slavery. Since 1865 June 19th has honored the freedoms of African Americans while emphasizing their achievements. This celebration is observed around the world lasting days, weeks, or a month. Juneteeth can be honored by a simple prayer at the family table and by attending or planning large community events. Around the world people of all colors unite to recognize a time in history that continues to direct the core of our society.

On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers led by Major General Gordon Granger landed at Galveston, Texas to announce that the Civil War had ended and that all slaves were now free. Armed with shock and immeasurable joy, slaves quickly left the plantations heading both north and south. Juneteeth has since been a day of celebration with deep roots in community. In America, Juneteeth is a day to lift up African Americans such as Martin L. King and Barack Obama, while remembering the hard road behind and the possibilities ahead. Around the world, Juneteeth is a day to recognize people of all colors and further the quest for equality and diversity.

Juneteeth Events Near You: (Follow each states link for more events in your area!)
Arkansas:
June - 19-20, 2009 - West Dumas Family Life Center. Watch a documentary tribute 'From King to Obama.' and enjoy diverse forms of celebration. Call (870) 377.2404 for more information.

Arizona:
Chandler presents 'Back to Basics' on June 19th and 20th. Join the family style celebration of African American history. Call (480) 899.3022 for further information.

California:
June 20, 2009 join the National Brotherhood Alliance in Richmond for a blow out celebration of Juneteeth. Festivities include cook outs, parades (10 am), sports, and much more. Call (510) 620-6516) for further details.

New York:
The Brownsville heritage House in Brooklyn will host a slavery exhibit, artworks, poetry, music, dance, and a talent contest to celebrate Juneteeth in New York. Contact (718) 385.1111 FREE ADMISSION.

Pennsylvania:
The Neighborhood Center of the United Methodist Church, 1801 N Third St Harrisburg, will be holding a block party, open to the public, to celebrate Juneteeth. The party starts at noon on June 19th.

Texas:
Fort Worth will hold a Miss Juneteeth Texas Pageant on June 27th.

On June 20th, the Juneteeth Committee in Bryan will hold a parade down Martin L King St. from Sadie Thomas Park to E.A. Kemp Elementary. The parade begins at 10 a.m.

Look for celebrations and community events in your state!

Celebrate Juneteeth with these beautiful poems and quotes.

Juneteeth! Celebrate Freedom!

Published by Sanity Rose

I believe in life. Every ounce of simplicity and every mega-load of intensity enthralls me. I love the art of poetry and the art of truth.  View profile

  • Juneteeth is celebrated through out the world.
  • Juneteeth is the first known day of celebration for the end of slavery.
  • It took move than two years after the Emancipation Proclamtion for slaves to begin their freedom.
According to anti-slavery organizations there are more slaves today, worldwide, than at any other time in history.

3 Comments

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  • Carol Rucker11/2/2009

    Nice Informative article, Sanity Rose

  • Carol Rucker11/2/2009

    Dear Guest,
    I have no idea how old you are; but perhaps you aren't old enough to realize that up until a few decades ago, the only thing American schools taught was "White History." They are finally telling the real story of how Native Americans were here long before anyone 'discovered' America. Then there are Asian Americans who haven't had their story told properly either. Yes, young man, you have a lot of catching up to do. I suggest a trip to the library.... or a good Black History Class.

  • j.m.6/15/2009

    wow I didnt know blacks had another national holiday. Isnt martin luther day and black history enough. they'd go nuts if we had white history month or white day!

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