Sometimes called Black Independence Day, Freedom Day, or Liberation Day, Juneteenth, June 19, has been continually celebrated since 1865, when news reached Galveston, Texas, that all enslaved persons had been declared free.
Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the City of Somerville’s Department of Racial and Social Justice (RSJ) invite community members to attend the Juneteenth flag raising ceremony on Tuesday, June 18, on the City Hall concourse (93 Highland Ave.) from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. The flag-raising will also feature an African Drumming performance and photo display by The Art of Black Dance & Music, as well as remarks from Somerville youth, local leaders, and activists.
Later this month, RSJ is partnering with the Community Action Agency of Somerville (CAAS), Bow Market, and the Somerville Museum to host the annual reading of Frederick Douglass’ famous address, “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?” The reading and discussion will take place on Thursday, June 27. Please RSVP online, as space at the venue is limited.