Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, holds profound significance in American history. It marks the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for equality and justice. It’s a time to reflect on the history of the Black community, celebrate progress, and come together as a community.
Celebrated on June 19th each year, Juneteenth commemorates the day in 1865 when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and proclaimed the emancipation of those still enslaved, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. This national holiday is a time to reflect on American history, celebrate the progress we’ve made, and renew our commitment to a more equitable society.
At the Guidance Center, we are guided by the core values of balance, opportunity, integrity, stability, creativity, humility, and inclusivity and we are beyond proud to honor Juneteenth as an agency holiday. This decision reflects our unwavering commitment to fostering diversity, inclusivity, and understanding within our organization and the communities we serve. Let’s come together as a community, honor the struggles and triumphs of the past, and work towards a future where equality and justice prevail.
The greater Los Angeles area is gearing up for a weekend full of incredible Juneteenth events that you won’t want to miss!
Long Beach Juneteenth Celebration: Now in its third year, the Long Beach Juneteenth Celebration has quickly become one of the city’s most anticipated and best attended events. This celebration attracts thousands to Rainbow Lagoon Park for the day-long celebration of Black history and culture, and features live music, dancing and family activities! Learn more at lbjuneteenth.com.
Pomona Valley Juneteenth Family Jazz and Arts Festival: This free event takes place on June 18th at Ganesha Park. Attendees can expect a delightful day of Jazz, R&B, gospel music and poetry. There will also be arts & crafts activities for the whole family!
Juneteenth Monument Walk: Black Arts Los Angeles will hold a 4 mile walk at 8 a.m. to remember and celebrate when the last slaves in the United States finally heard they had been emancipated. Fore more information visit blackartslosangeles.org.
SoulfulofNoise Juneteenth Festival: SoulfulofNoise, which runs open mic events called Soulful Sundays in L.A., is dedicated to empwering children to believe in themselves. This free event takes place on June 19th and will include health & wellness activities and a creative entrepreneurship workshop geared toward children!
San Gabriel Valley Juneteenth – A Freedom Day Virtual Event: The online discussion focusing on infant and maternal health and presented by the San Gabriel Valley Infant and Maternal Mortality Team is set for 5 to 6 p.m. Make a reservation to receive the Zoom link: bit.ly/2zEf9mD
Happy Juneteenth!