Juneteenth is considered the U.S. second independence day; unfortunately, it is not as remembered and celebrated as the first.
On June 19, 1985, all enslaved African Americans in the country finally gained their freedom.
Brief History of Juneteenth
As the National Museum of African American History and Culture Website said, "Freedom's Eve" occurred on January 1, 1863, before Juneteenth could happen.
And on that night, their prayers were heard, and the Emancipation Proclamation had taken effect for all enslaved people in Confederate states, so they were officially free.
Confederate states included South Carolina, North Carolina, Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, Texas, Virginia, Arkansas, and Tennessee.
But even though the Emancipation Proclamation was in effect, not all states under Confederate states could take part in this liberation until they stopped being under Confederate control.
Such was the case of Texas, and a couple of years later, in 1865, they were finally free. The more than 2,500 enslaved people in Texas became free on June 19, 1985, now known as a celebratory day named "Juneteenth" by the then-freed Texans.
Since then, we have been celebrating freedom and trying to achieve equality daily.
For more information, please visit the NMAAHC Website, https://nmaahc.si.edu/juneteenth-digital-toolkit.
Juneteenth Celebrations Happening in San Diego County
Chula Vista
● Celebrate freedom at this free event on Saturday, June 17, 2023, at 12 p.m. at the Chula Vista Brewery – Eastlake at 871 Showroom Place #102, Chula Vista, CA 91914.
● 619 Day is an event that celebrates Juneteenth, Father's Day, and native San Diegans all in one; if you are interested in attending, it will take place at 3008 Main St, Chula Vista, CA 91910, on June 18, it will have free entertainment, live music, and a variety of Vendors!
● In festivities on this important day, the City said through a release that all city offices and facilities will be closed on Monday, June 19.
San Diego
● There will be a Black art, music, and community celebration at UC San Diego Park and Market on Sunday, June 18, from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. This event offers free admission and features a market of small businesses owned by Black individuals, live music, delicious food, and more.
● At World Beat Cultural Center, a Black Biz Flea Market: Juneteenth Celebration will occur on Sunday, June 18. There will be 30+ Black-owned vendors, shopping, food & fun!
● The Mental Bar will host a Juneteenth Art Show event on June 19 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.; there, you will find art, coffee, tea, and wellness.
● Mystic Mocha Cafe in University Heights will host a free Juneteenth event on Saturday, June 17, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. With live reggae, soul, and hip-hop music, poetry, food, and dance.
Numerous free and fun events are happening around the City for the upcoming Juneteenth celebration. Be sure to attend and take advantage of them. However, let's also remember that this day significantly highlights the importance of equality and the ongoing pursuit of freedom. Let's continue to learn and celebrate.
