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.
Here are some ways you can celebrate Juneteenth around town:
Juneteenth Commemoration Webinar Sinclair College – Friday, June 18, 11:30am
Guest speaker Dr. Eddie S. Glaude, Jr., Professor of African Studies at Princeton University, will discuss the importance of Juneteenth for all Americans. – Register here
Juneteenth Community Block Party
June 19 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Join The Wood Shoppes for a community Juneteenth celebration. The event is free to the public. There will be food, music, local vendors and activities for children. All are welcome!
Springboro’s Juneteenth Jubilee
June 19 @ 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Springboro is a significant landmark in the history of the Underground Railroad and abolitionist movement. Our founding Quaker community played a major role as a safe harbor for slaves paving the way for freedom for Black Americans.
Explore real sites of the Underground Railroad. With map in hand, visit 5 unique sites on a self-guided tour where volunteers at each stop will teach you more about how our Quaker ancestors were able to help slaves on their path to freedom. The Springboro Area Museum will be open from 9 am to 3 pm for visitors while the tours take place throughout the city. Visitors can get their map for the tour at the Springboro Area Museum located at 110 S. Main St. Springboro, OH 45066.
A 3-on-3 basketball tournament for all ages from U-12 to 40+. Event will take place at the Coffman YMCA of Greater Dayton at 88 Remick Blvd, Springboro, OH 45066. All games will be played outside, weather permitting, with indoor facilities available, if needed. First game will tip off at 9:00 am Check in will begin at 7:45 a.m.
Sankofa Juneteenth Celebration
Friday, June 18, 4:30pm –
Dusk at Liberation Park
(Corner of Superior and Broadway)
Saturday, June 19, 9:30am,
Parade from Gem City Market to Liberation Park
Vendors, Live Performances,
Elder’s Recognition at Liberation Park from 11am – Dusk
Juneteenth Festival,
Saturday, June 19, 1 – 8:30pm
RiverScape MetroPark
Live Band: Premium Blend
Drill Team Competition
Hosted by Terry Da Voice
Oregon District Juneteenth Block Party, Saturday, June 19, Noon – 4pm, 200 Wayne Ave, Dayton
Food trucks, visual arts, music, and more! Bring your family as we pay homage to the true day of liberation for African-Americans in the US.
Juneteenth Commemoration at Levitt Pavilion
Saturday, June 19,
5 – 9pm
Poetry
Dance
Drumming
Musicians
Selfie Wall
Food Trucks
Live Concert with Tank and the Bangas
