Genuine Work, the Dayton community’s premier full-service collaborative, co-working firm, announces its Juneteenth National Independence Day celebration, championing the progress of Dayton’s great Black and Brown entrepreneurs and this vibrant community. Genuine Work has partnered with the Oregon District Business Association (ODBA), Northwest Dayton Partnership’s Learn to Earn Program, and venture development firm Trep House for an afternoon full of activities, camaraderie, and laughter.
The celebration kicks off at 11 am on Saturday, June 18th at Genuine Work, 15 McDonough St. Until 2 pm, Daytonians can enjoy the family-friendly festivities such as face painting and classic children’s games, a wide variety of black-owned food trucks offering a selection of bites and treats, and local organizations and businesses coming together to showcase the best Dayton has to offer.
“It is with a full heart and gratitude, I have the opportunity as Genuine Work’s Community Builder to host an event that is intentional and necessary for Dayton’s Black and Brown community. We look forward to celebrating this joyous and impactful holiday with all who call Dayton home and to taking time to honor the ancestors that realized this holiday for us.” – Dana Graham, Community Builder, Genuine Work
With the Juneteenth celebration, Genuine Work and its partners seek to highlight the success of the Black and Brown community, particularly the triumphs of minority-owned businesses within Dayton. As champions of equality, Genuine Work, ODBA, and the Northwest Dayton Partnership hope to connect the larger Dayton community to some of the thriving small businesses and entrepreneurs integral to the fabric of western Ohio. Find a new favorite food truck, wine, boutique, service providers, and more while celebrating progress.
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 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.
Juneteenth Commemoration at Levitt Pavilion