More than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation went into effect, and two months after the end of the U.S. Civil War, Texas slaves discovered they were freed on June 19, 1865. This date, Juneteenth, has been commemorated in communities across America and became a federal holiday in 2021.

Beginning this week, the Stanford community will hold a variety of activities and programs to celebrate Black American culture, contribution, and freedom.

This year’s Juneteenth programming focuses on the theme, “Unity in Freedom,” and includes a series of events and activities from June 4 to July 19 at the Stanford campus, SLAC, Stanford Redwood City, and Stanford Research Park. 

In addition, for the first time, a number of Stanford Redwood City’s Juneteenth events will also be open to the residents of Redwood City. This year’s collaboration marks a step in fostering community connections and celebrating African American culture and history with local communities.

Tuesday, June 4, marks the opening of Juneteenth events with a visual arts exhibit and appetizers at Stanford Redwood City. Several of the artists whose works are displayed will be present, and attendees can also view a screening of Rising: The Hall of Negro Life. The documentary focuses on the creation of the Hall of Negro Life at the 1936 Texas Centennial, which catalyzed the civil rights movement in America.

These are just some of the events planned for Juneteenth. Continue to check the Juneteenth website for details, and the most up-to-date information.

For Stanford community members interested in participating remotely, on June 25, a cooking demonstration with Stanford Chef Terry Braggs will be livestreamed on the Juneteenth website, where additional details about all activities are available.