Juneteenth, also known as Emancipation Day, is the oldest known celebration of the abolition of slavery in the United States. On June 19, 1865, the Union Army arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced that all slaves in Texas were free. The first celebration was held in Texas in 1866. Today, Juneteenth is recognized as a holiday in most states and is celebrated by African Americans and others as a time to honor the legacy of slavery and the struggle for freedom, to celebrate African American culture and heritage, and to recognize the ongoing struggle for racial justice and equality.
Milwaukee has the longest continuous running Juneteenth celebration and is celebrating its 55th anniversary! Here, this significant day is honored with a parade, live music, dance performances, educational workshops, delicious cuisine and variety of events and activities that reflect the rich culture and heritage of the African American community. It is a time for people of all backgrounds to come together, celebrate freedom, and reaffirm their commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable society.
Information about this year’s events on June 19th:
Theme: Honoring the Past and Empowering the Future
Sponsored by Northcott Neighborhood House
Parade starts at 9 a.m. It begins at the intersection of 14th Street and West Atkinson Avenue and travels south on Martin Luther King Dr and ends near West Locust Street.
Festival starts after parade until 4 p.m. on Martin Luther King Dr. (between West Concordia and West Center Streets). Festival features music, vendors, food, and family activities. Special zones for kids, teens, veterans, and seniors.
Celebration at Summerfest Grounds start at 6 p.m. on June 19th.
