The Emancipation Proclamation was signed on June 1, 1863, freeing all slaves in the United States of America. Union soldiers marched through southern states, reading the new declaration and announcing freedom for the enslaved, according to the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
However, not all Black people were immediately free in Texas, as the state was still under Confederate control at the time of the signing. On June 19, 1865, about 2,000 Union troops marched into Texas, officially freeing all Black people from slavery. This significant date is known as Juneteenth, a celebration of freedom and equality. Here are some events, celebrations, and marches happening in our area in honor of Juneteenth:
June 18, 1-2 PM
University of Michigan, 500 S State St, Ann Arbor
Join the Women of Color Task Force for its 2nd annual Juneteenth observance event. The Juneteenth holiday is celebrated on Saturday, June 19, 2021, but we invite you to join us for our celebration on Friday, June 18th, from 8:30 am – 1:30 pm. The theme for our event is “Improving Intercultural Race Relations to Develop Intercultural Solidarity.”
June 19, 3-7 PM
Ypsilanti Freighthouse, 100 Market Pl, Ypsilanti
Save the date! This Juneteenth, celebrate Black excellence by supporting local Black businesses in the Washtenaw County area. This even will feature the hottest Black owned fashion brands in the area. Buy Black, support, and don’t miss this event!
June 19, 12-5 PM
Wheeler Park, 200 Depot St, Ann Arbor
2021 marks the 27th anniversary of the Juneteenth observation here in Ann Arbor, but the first year to be officially recognized by the city. A day of celebration is hosted by the Ann Arbor NAACP. March 10am-noon, rain or shine, from Fuller Park to historic
Wheeler Park, named for the city’s first and only African American Mayor, Albert H. Wheeler. Virtual event from 1pm.
June 19, 10:30 AM-3:00 PM
Ypsilanti Downtown Development Authority, 1 S Huron St, Ypsilanti
Join in this community-wide Juneteenth celebration and Ypsi BLM Street Mural Reveal in Downtown Ypsilanti. Performances by Mr. John E. Lawrence and his 9-piece band, Ypsilanti legend Athena, plus more. Bring your own favorite, comfy chair to enjoy the day and celebration.
June 19, 9 PM
N Washington St, Ypsilanti
Performances from some of your favorite local hip-hop & R & B artists plus a demonstration by The Moving Village dance crew!
We are also looking to feature any black owned businesses/ visual artists who might want to participate
June 19, 4-6 PM
Ypsilanti Food Co-op, 312 N River St, Ypsilanti
