Juneteenth, also known as "Freedom Day" or "Emancipation Day," commemorates June 19, 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas were informed of their freedom nearly two and half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued by President Lincoln on Jan 1, 1863. Read more about The Historical Legacy of Juneteenth from the National Museum of African American History & Culture.
The following are a few ways to commemorate Juneteenth in the greater Seattle area. Be sure to visit our Events Calendar for a list of more Juneteenth events!
A Days Wage Supporting Black Liberation
Creative Justice is hosting A Days Wage, where non-Black community members are encouraged to consider joining the campaign by contributing paid time off wages to Creative Justice or another Black-led organization as a form of economic justice and racial justice.
It Takes a Village
Consider donating to the organization It Takes a Village, which provides opportunities to engage with history and the Black experience and connect with community, services and resources, and more to improve overall health and celebrate the diverse cultures that make up our communities. They will also be hosting the 8th Annual Juneteenth Celebration at Othello Playground on June 22nd.
Northwest African American Museum (NAAM)
Spanning three days, NAAM will be celebrating Juneteenth on the 15th with their Annual Skate Party and 16th with their Celebrating Fathers event. They will be concluding their Juneteenth celebration on June 19th with free admission to the museum, community activities, and an opportunity to see their newest exhibits Emmett Till & Mamie Till-Mobley: Let the World See and Interrupting Privilege.
Eastside Honoring Juneteenth
Our colleague Delbert Richardson of The Unspoken Truths American History Traveling Museum will be featured in this celebration in Kirkland on June 17th. There will be speakers, performances, DJs, and food trucks. Visit the event website for more details.