Juneteenth History:


Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the US. On June 19, 1865, the last enslaved Americans learned they were free.

On this day, Union soldiers landed al Galveston, Texas with news that the war had ended and that the enslaved were now free.

This was a couple years after president Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation - which had become official January 1, 1863.

What is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth is a holiday that celebrates the end of slavery in the U.S.
Due to a surge in support for the BLM movement and anti-racism efforts, Juneteenth is finally getting widespread recognition.



How to celebrate Juneteenth:



  • Challenge friends, family, co-workers to present African American facts, to get the conversion started to debunk myths and stereotypes. 
  • In the workplace - Discuss company diversity initiatives and esnure employees that race and gender will never be barriers to their progress within a company.
  • Encourage your libraries, post offices, city hall to host Juneteenth displays.
  • Plan a special gathering with friends to acknowledge Juneteenth. Exchange facts or quotes from history.

    Read more ways to celebrate here.


Facebook is celebrating Juneteenth by amplifying Black voices.
You can log in to your Facebook and check out The Speak Up Series:

Amplify Black Voices and stand against racism.
Spotlight: The Speak Up Series
Conversations to raise awareness on racial inequality in the Black community.

We also really enjoyed the video posted by Google, highlighting the 155th Anniversary of Juneteenth.
Watch the video here.


Juneteenth San Diego:



With the events of 2020, Juneteenth takes on special meaning as cities across the country celebrate balck history and culture. Here are a few events taking place in San Diego today (6/19/20) and tomorrow (6/20/20).



San Diego Events:



Event: Artists 4 Black Lives
When: Friday, June 19th 4:00PM
Where: Park Blvd and Presidents Way entrance to Balboa Park (across from the Navy Hospital).
Description: Please join us for a site-in/sing-in on Juneteenth. We are gathering safely and using social distancing rules, so please use your masks! Allie are welcome to listen and echo - and we encourage bringing signs in support and solidarity.
All Talents Welcome!

If you would like to perform, donate snacks/water, and /or donate monetarily, please contact Eboni Muse at Ebonimuse@gmail.com or Venmo @EboniMuse (Please indicate A4BL)



Juneteenth - Our Independence Day Cookout Celebration
When: Friday, June 19th 12PM
Where: Belmont Park

Description: Family.Friends.Food.Fun.
This is a celebration, however, for everyone’s safety, we strongly recommend that everyone wear a mask and practice social distancing.
Prepare for a hot and sunny day. Bring whatever you need to get comfortable (water, shade, cushion, etc.) We’re gladly providing an opportunity to peacefully come together and celebrate our pride for being unapologetically Black and fulfilling our ancestors wildest dreams. Happy Juneteenth.

#JuneteenthSD

Juneteenth Weekend San Diego Celebration - Ski Beach Takeover
When: Saturday, June 20th 12:00PM
Where: Ski Beach Park, Mission Bay

Description:
Let’s celebrate freedom and Black joy! A beach day for all of Black San Diego and those who support Black lives! Social distancing and masks are strongly encouraged. Bring your own food, drinks, music, and whatever you need to enjoy the sun. Please be responsible for your own BBQ’s and trash. Family friendly event. Vendors are welcome.