Most Americans acknowledge July 4th as the day to celebrate liberty. But, there are actually two celebrations of freedom in the United States, and one of them is this Friday.
Juneteenth is a day that many Black Americans observe that is sure to gain even more attention in the shadow of George Floyd’s and other deaths due to racism and police brutality. Here’s what you need to know about the holiday and how you can celebrate locally.
What is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth—celebrated every Jun 19th—marks the day that Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas with news that enslaved Black Americans were free—two-and-a-half years after Pres. Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation.
It’s the oldest national commemoration of the end of slavery in the United States.
The day’s activities range from sports and barbeques to prayers and educational programs, according to the National Registry of Juneteenth Organizations and Supporters.
In Birmingham, there are several ways to celebrate the holiday.
June 19th List of events:
4 p.m. Juneteenth Celebration Picnic, Patton Park
More info here.
4-8 p.m. Juneteenth Pop Up, 4th Avenue Business District
More info here.
5 p.m. Women’s March, Legion Field
5-9 p.m. Simone’s Kitchen ATL Food Truck Grand Opening/Food Truck Fridays, 521 3rd Avenue West
More info here.
5-10 p.m. Party, Downtown Ensley Business District
7 p.m. Dr. Angela Y. Davis honored with Fred Shuttlesworth Human Rights Award, online
Register here.
Related News
-
Why your voice on historic preservation is essential
Filed Under: Front Page, Get Involved, Historic Preservation, Residential
President and CEO of REV Birmingham David Fleming writes about the importance of historic preservation and highlights the advocacy efforts that saved the French Quarter in New Orleans and the Forest Park neighborhood in Birmingham. The article concludes with a call to action, urging for new leaders and the implementation of various strategies to protect and celebrate Birmingham’s historic buildings and places.
-
It's show time at the Woodlawn Theater!
Filed Under: Filling Vacant Spaces, Front Page, Small Business, Woodlawn, Yaysayers
Lights, Camera, Action! The rebirth of the Woodlawn Theater is happening this weekend in the heart of Woodlawn. The theater is opening its doors to the public with two extraordinary opening events that are FREE to the public. The 1400 square foot venue has a wide range of amenities and even has a full-service bar. Because of the Mason Music Foundation, this venue is filling a much needed resource for local musicians to perform. Keep reading to discover how the theater came back to life and its impact on the community.
-
What Stallions cornerback, Brian Allen loves about Birmingham
Filed Under: Downtown Birmingham, Events, Front Page, Yaysayers
Brian Allen, a talented cornerback, has made the remarkable transition from a small town in Texas to the vibrant city of Birmingham. Choosing Birmingham for his football career for two consecutive seasons, Brian’s unwavering dedication and exceptional skills have made him a standout figure in the world of football. To dive deeper into Brian’s journey and discover his genuine appreciation for the city, watch this video with the link below!