By Hilda M. Jordan
Juneteenth is a joyful celebration of progress and promise. It became a federal holiday in 2021, but its origin reaches back to June 19, 1865, when the last enslaved Black Americans in Galveston, Texas learned of their freedom more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Racism, inequality, and exclusion were still deeply present in 1866, but the celebration was held because it was important to honor the contributions, resilience, and joy of Black people in the ongoing pursuit of freedom.
Today, Juneteenth is both a moment to reflect on our history and a reminder of the promise we are still building toward: equality, freedom, and belonging for all. As an Afro-Latina, I celebrate Juneteenth even though it is not my specific ancestral history, because it is part of the larger story of Black life, freedom, and American identity. Because we are all connected to this history, Juneteenth can be honored by everyone.
This year, MUNPC’s Juneteenth programming will take place across two days of remembrance, reflection, celebration, and community connection. Friday, June 19 will feature a Day of Remembrance at St. Matthew’s Temple focused on local storytelling, reflection, and community memory connected to the Second Ward, Washington Courts, Goldbas, and the history of Utica’s Black community.
On Saturday, June 20, MUNPC will host its 10th Annual Juneteenth Celebration at Kemble Park from 12–8 PM. The day will include vendors, food, youth and family activities, community resources, a Gospel Power Hour, entertainment, and Community Excellence Awards determined by in-person voting. MUNPC will also launch its interactive “Making History” family tree and living archive exhibit, highlighting Black families, businesses, churches, organizations, and stories connected to Utica’s last 100 years.
Join us to learn, contribute, support, and celebrate freedom, culture, memory, and the many people who continue to build Utica.
Learn more at linktr.ee/MUNPC.
