Juneteenth celebrations reiterate Freedom in Metro Detroit

Juneteenth Independence Day, Freedom Day, Emancipation Day, Black Independence Day, Jubilee Day, or simply Juneteenth, June 19th is a day to honor. The fairly new nationwide holiday celebration is rapidly rising.

A holiday observing the emancipation of those who were enslaved in the United States. This specific day marks the day the message arrived in Galveston, Texas in 1865 ensuring the last group of slaves were informed they were free.

Freedom Day is the oldest known celebration commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. For years cities in Texas celebrated June 19th. In 1979 Texas became the first state to make Juneteenth an official state holiday. It was last year July 2023, when Michigan legislation officially signed Juneteenth as a state holiday. Three years ago, June 17, 2021, Juneteenth was federally signed as a recognized holiday. Over the past year the public holiday has grown in popularity.

Many corporations were closed in recognition of Juneteenth. Plenty of people had time to partake in the day festivities. There were activities all day. From early dawn flag raises to late dusk picnics, there was something for everyone. At a pop-up shop in Highland Park, Michigan, co vendor, Diane Harriell shared what this day, "it means freedom, Black folks," she adds "hopefully it'll get better and people come together for events more." Next year she plans to start a cookout tradition, with family and neighbors.

Here is how some others celebrated June 19th ,2024.

"The way my family and I celebrated was together by spending time with my fiancé's aunt. 6months ago she was given a 1% chance living. The Dr's told her daughters to get the family here. As wild as that sound to even say out loud. She was hit again being diagnosed with cancer. Today we celebrated the life of those before us and the life we praise God for today." – Devin Massengale, Plymouth, MI resident.

"This year for Juneteenth, my social group YBPD, Young Black Professionals of Detroit and I, organized a potluck at Riverside Park in Downtown Detroit. It really was a wonderful day full of games, great food, and tons of laughter. I think it's really meaningful that WE celebrate US on OUR Holiday!" – Alex Uduma, Detroit, MI resident.