A history of Juneteenth and how Chicago will celebrate

Today, we acknowledge an important day in American history, Juneteenth, commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation, which had been issued in 1863. This delayed announcement marked the liberation of the last remaining enslaved individuals in the Confederate states.

The National Museum of African American History and Culture described the event this way, “ On “Freedom’s Eve,” or the eve of January 1, 1863, the first Watch Night services took place. On that night, enslaved and free African Americans gathered in churches and private homes all across the country awaiting news that the Emancipation Proclamation had taken effect. At the stroke of midnight, prayers were answered as all enslaved people in Confederate States were declared legally free. Union soldiers, many of whom were black, marched onto plantations and across cities in the south reading small copies of the Emancipation Proclamation spreading the news of freedom in Confederate States. Only through the Thirteenth Amendment did emancipation end slavery throughout the United States.”

A century and a half later, people across the country continue to celebrate this day, now a federal holiday. In 2021, President Biden signed bipartisan legislation that made Juneteenth, which falls on June 19, the 11^th holiday recognized by the federal government. Former Mayor Lori Lightfoot declared Juneteenth a paid city holiday just a few days before it was federally recognized. The holiday is also called “Juneteenth Independence Day,” “Freedom Day” or “Emancipation Day.”

Chicagoans will celebrate this day across the city with a variety of events and activities:

1. The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center will host the “Du’s 3^rd annual Juneteenth Community BBQ” today until 8 pm. The event will also present a special tribute for the 50^th anniversary of hip hop.
2. Hyde Park will host the Thank You Juneteenth Market at the Promontory until 7 pm, featuring vendors, food and music.
3. The Juneteenth Block Party will take place at 1200 E. 79^th St. until 9 pm with music, food, décor, and more.

(Visit this link for more event details and celebrations.)