Juneteenth is an American holiday that celebrates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans on June 19, 1865. This day marks the end of slavery in the United States, as well as a day of celebration for African Americans. Juneteenth is celebrated in more than 40 states in the U.S., with some states recognizing it as an official state holiday.
On June 19, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas with news that the Civil War had ended and that all enslaved African Americans were to be freed. This news arrived more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation. Today, Juneteenth is a day of celebration, reflection and education. People gather in communities to celebrate the end of slavery and to remember the struggles of African Americans throughout history. Following a renewed effort for recognition from activists and civil rights groups, Juneteenth was officially declared a federal holiday in 2021.
Check out how Chicago Celebrates Juneteenth:
Thank you Chicago Juneteenth Market
The Juneteenth Market is a pop up market celebrating black businesses in Chicago. It will take place Monday, June 19th at The Promontory in Hyde Park at 5311 S. Lake Park Ave.
Juneteenth Village Fest at Douglass Park
The Juneteenth Village Fest is a free festival geared toward family fun with rides, games, food, and more! It takes place on June 17th and is hosted by Chicago’s It Takes A Village Family of Schools.
Juneteenth Family Festival
The Beverly/Morgan Park Juneteenth Family Festival aims to honor our ancestors and celebrate African and African American cultural heritage. It takes place on June 17th at 110th and Longwood Dr. Chicago, IL. This year’s theme is Fun and Fit!
