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The City of Racine and the Dr. John Bryant Community Center are inviting the community to celebrate freedom, culture, and community during the 51st Annual Juneteenth Celebration this June.

Hosted by the City of Racine Parks, RecreationActivity done for enjoyment when one is not working. & Cultural Services Department, the Racine Juneteenth Committee and community partners, the multi-day celebration will feature music, community gatherings, educational programming, youth activities, cultural events, and the community’s annual Juneteenth outdoor celebration.

Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when news of emancipation finally reached enslaved African Americans in Texas, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. Also known as Freedom Day or Juneteenth Independence Day, the observance honors African American freedom, resilienceThe capacity to withstand or to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness., culture and progress.

Now in its 51st year, Racine’s Juneteenth celebration has grown into one of the community’s longstanding annual traditions, bringing together residents, families, businesses, organizations and local leaders for a week of celebration and reflection.

This year’s celebration begins Saturday, June 6, with the annual Juneteenth Sneaker Ball at Roma Lodge. The event combines formal attire with sneaker culture in an evening of live entertainment, dining, fellowship, and fundraising to support future Juneteenth programming and initiativesThe ability to assess and initiate things independently.. Guests will also celebrate the recognition of Mr. and Miss Juneteenth, as well as community supporters, during the event.

Additional events throughout the week include a Juneteenth Flag Raising Ceremony on Sunday, June 7, at the Dr. John Bryant Community Center (601 Caron Butler Drive), followed by ONE Racine on Tuesday, June 9, which will bring together community organizations, resources, and activities focused on unity, empowerment, and neighborhood engagement.

The celebration culminates on Saturday, June 13, with the Juneteenth Outdoor Celebration at the Dr. John Bryant Community Center. The free, family-friendly event will feature live entertainment, community resources and informational booths, basketball games, children’s activities, food vendors, and activities throughout the day. Organizers say the event is designed to celebrate culture, connect the community, and create a welcoming space for residents of all ages.

The community celebration will also coincide with the Racine Juneteenth Parade in downtown Racine earlier that day. The annual parade celebrates freedom, culture, and progress and drew more than 65 entries last year, including community organizations, local businesses, leaders, and families from throughout the area.

Organizers say the annual celebration continues to reflect both the history and ongoing significance of Juneteenth while highlighting the strength, creativity and unity of the Racine community.

The 51st Juneteenth Celebration is sponsored by the Racine Juneteenth Committee, City of Racine Parks, RecreationActivity done for enjoyment when one is not working. & Cultural Services Department, Educators Credit Union, JP Morgan Chase, Gruber Law, Racine County, American Cancer Society, Versiti, and additional community partners.