By Lynn Jones | There were no dull moments on the First Coast during this year’s Juneteenth celebrations. The region came alive with vibrant activities that honored African American history, culture, and resilience. Festivities included the Many Mansion Nonprofit Vendor Fair at Edward Waters University; the Juneteenth Festival at Riverwalk Park; The Pop-Out at Lift Every Voice and Sing Park; the Juneteenth Industry Invasion held inside Lauren’s Seafood Blues and Jazz Lounge featuring actor and comedian Brian Hooks; the Ritz Chamber Players: Juneteenth—Voices of Freedom at Terry Concert Hall; and the heroic lighting of the Main Street Bridge in red, black, and green by the Northside Coalition of Jacksonville.
Each event served as a celebration of African American legacy and a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and equality.
Observed annually on June 19th, Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when enslaved people in Texas finally learned of their freedom—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. Known as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth,” Texas native, educator, and activist Opal Lee, now 98, dedicated her life to making Juneteenth a nationally recognized holiday. Her efforts paid off on June 17, 2021, when Juneteenth was officially declared a federal holiday.
Today, Juneteenth is celebrated across the nation with dancing, storytelling, community markets, and historical reflections. As the African American community continues to advocate for justice in the courts, combat housing discrimination, and champion voter registration efforts, Juneteenth has become more than a day of remembrance—it is a celebration of progress, pride, and perseverance.
Juneteenth is our holiday. Our freedom. Our day.