Juneteenth

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Juneteenth is a federal holiday in the United States that commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and celebrates Black culture, resilience, and achievement.

The holiday traces its origins to Galveston, where on June 19, 1865, Union Army General Gordon Granger announced General Order No. 3, declaring freedom for enslaved people in Texas—the last Confederate state where slavery remained enforced.

Since that historic moment, June 19 has been observed as a day of reflection, education, and celebration across the country. Juneteenth was officially recognized as a federal holiday on June 17, 2021, when Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law.

Today, Juneteenth honors the enduring strength of African American communities while offering an opportunity for all to learn, reflect, and celebrate freedom.


City of Southfield Celebrates Juneteenth with Week of Activities and Events June 13-20

 


Juneteenth Flag Raising at City Hall

Saturday, June 13 | 9:30 a.m.
Southfield Municipal Campus Circle

Southfield’s Juneteenth Celebration will kick off with the raising of the Juneteenth flag on Saturday, June 13 at 9:30 a.m. at the circle drive in front of City Hall, 26000 Evergreen Road.  

Mayor’s Juneteenth Walk

Saturday, June 13 | 10:00–11:30 a.m.
Southfield Municipal Campus Circle

Join Mayor Ken Siver for the Mayor’s Juneteenth Walk, a 2.5-mile community walk celebrating Southfield history and the achievements of African Americans in the city. Participants will enjoy an invigorating walk while learning about the people and stories that helped shape the community.

SPL Family Research Forum

Tuesday, June 16 | 6:30–7:30 p.m.
Southfield Public Library Auditorium

Celebrate Juneteenth with a special Family Research Forum exploring the importance of preserving personal and family histories. The illustrated presentation, Preserving Personal Archives in the Digital Age, will offer practical ways to protect photos, documents, and digital memories while honoring cultural legacy and storytelling traditions.

The program will be presented by Cal LaFountain, a writer focused on cultural memory, archival storytelling, and preservation technologies.

Friends of the Southfield Public Library Juneteenth Jazz & Blues Concert

Wednesday, June 17 | 6:30–8:30 p.m.
Southfield Public Library Meeting Room

Residents are invited to enjoy an evening of jazz and blues in celebration of Juneteenth during this special concert hosted by the Friends of the Southfield Public Library.

Senior Services Juneteenth Luncheon

Thursday, June 18 | 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Parks & Recreation Building, 26000 Evergreen Rd.

Enjoy a catered lunch featuring live music by Florella Strings and spoken word performances by One Single Rose during this community-centered Juneteenth luncheon. Guests can also shop local vendors while enjoying an afternoon of music, poetry, and fellowship.

The cost is $25 for Southfield residents and $30 for non-residents. Registration is required by June 12 by calling Senior Services at (248) 796-4650.

Juneteenth Concert: Celebration of Black Culture

Thursday, June 18 | 7:00–9:00 p.m.
Southfield Municipal Campus Front Lawn

Celebrate Juneteenth with an evening of live music by Jynn & Juice, live art demonstrations, and free hands-on art activities led by Black artists. Black-owned food vendors will offer refreshments for purchase as the community gathers to honor Black culture through music, art, and creativity.

Admission is free, and guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs.

Open Mic Juneteenth Celebration

Saturday, June 20 | 1:00–4:00 p.m.
Southfield Library Front Lawn

Close out the weeklong celebration with an afternoon of spoken word, live music, and community during the Open Mic Juneteenth Celebration. The event will feature performances from some of Metro Detroit’s top poets, live music by Boddum Band, and hosting by Tony Speaks.

Guests can also enjoy food vendors, book sales, and additional community activities throughout the afternoon.

To register for the open mic event, visit: Southfield Public Library

Register for open mic here