Dating back to 1865, Juneteenth is a nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of chattel slavery in the U.S. On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers delivered the news to the enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, that the Civil War had ended and they were now free. This was a full two and half years after the Emancipation Proclamation had become official in 1863.
Juneteenth was declared a federal holiday in 2021, after years of activism led by 95-year-old Texas grandmother Opal Lee. Today the holiday is honored across the country each year on June 19. Celebrate Juneteenth 2024 in Chicago by discovering Black history, culture, and traditions.
Chicago cultural events for Juneteenth
North Lawndale History Tour with Chicago Mahogany Tours
Learn about the history and fortitude of the west side’s North Lawndale neighborhood during this tour led by Chicago’s celebrated urban historian Sherman “Dilla” Thomas. The two-hour bus tour will stop at important landmarks and cultural sites that honor North Lawndale’s influence on Chicago.
African Diaspora International Film Festival Chicago
Experience culturally significant films that examine the Black and Indigenous experience at this film festival which runs from June 14 – 16 at Facets. This year’s film topics include colorism, the Harlem Renaissance, and Afro-Brazilian activism. The festival highlights 12 films and also hosts Q&As with the filmmakers.
They Not Like Us: Art, Music and Community, A Celebration of Juneteenth
View the artwork of inspiring emerging artists while listening to live music during this community art event at Pose Cultural Art Gallery on Saturday, June 15. The Black woman-owned space in West Town will also host a Juneteenth open mic with poets, singers, and dancers on Wednesday, June 19.
Stokely: The Unfinished Revolution at Court Theatre
This Tony-Award-winning theatre in Hyde Park presents the world premiere of Stokely: The Unfinished Revolution, which tells the true story of civil rights activist Kwame Ture. Grab tickets for shows through June 16.
Black Culture Week
This 10-day event centers community action and Black culture with a variety of events, including a poetry slam, yoga, fireworks, meditation, wellness events, and more to celebrate Juneteenth and beyond.
The Black Aura: A Weekend of Liberation and the Arts
In Austin,
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