Juneteenth, short for June 19th, commemorates the end of slavery in the United States.
It commemorates the day in 1865 when news that slavery had been abolished reached Galveston, Texas, two years after Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863. In celebration, former slaves celebrated by feasting, singing, praying and dancing.
Here are several celebrations to enjoy. If you know of a celebration not listed here, please contact Shaniquah Gabon, sgabon@th-record.com:
Harambee Kingston’s Juneteenth Celebration
Harambee Kingston, a coalition that provides education on African American history and culture, presents their annual Juneteenth celebration, to be held at the Pine Street African Burial Ground, 157 Pine St., Kingston, on June 19 from noon to 4 p.m. There will be children’s activities, burial ground tours, commemorations, performances, great food and more. For details, check out Facebook.