Bristol Black Collective is honoring Juneteenth all month long, with a slate of special events planned in the Fall River area, celebrating culture, community, and commemoration.
Juneteenth is commemorated each year on June 19, to mark the end of slavery in the United States.
Although the Emancipation Proclamation was made effective in 1863, it would be two more years before it was fully enforced.
On June 19, 1865, Major General Gordon Granger and 2,000 Union Army troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas, for the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation that had been issued by President Abraham Lincoln.
The army announced that the more than 250,000 enslaved people in Texas were free by executive decree.
Juneteenth’s name is a portmanteau of the date of the decree: June nineteenth.
This year, the holiday is being marked locally with brunch, a celebration, and a reading of one of Frederick Douglass’ iconic speeches.
Here’s how Bristol Black Collective is honoring Juneteenth this year in Fall River:
Juneteenth Brunch at Duke’s Bakery
Celebrations kick off with a Juneteenth Brunch at Duke’s Bakery, 1082 Davol St., Fall River, on Thursday, June 19, at noon.
There will be live spoken-word and musical performances, cultural tributes, and “inspiring stories that reflect on the journey toward freedom and the ongoing pursuit of justice,” a press release from Bristol Black Collective said.
“This gathering will be a vibrant opportunity to celebrate with community members while nourishing both body and soul,” the press release said.
Juneteenth Celebration at Kennedy Park
On Saturday, June 21, from noon to 4 p.m., a Juneteenth Celebration will be held at Fall River’s Kennedy Park.
This is a family-friendly event, featuring live music, guest speakers, cultural performances, and small business vendors.
Plus, there will be food, and a community resources hub.
“It’s a chance to reflect on freedom’s significance, celebrate Black culture, and support local entrepreneurs,” the press release said.
Reading for Change: Community reading and drum circle
The final Juneteenth commemoration will take place at the Heritage State Park Visitor Center, in the Capt. Thomas J. Hudner Jr. Memorial Building, 100 Davol St., Fall River.
On Saturday, June 28, at 12:30 p.m., experience a Reading for Change event, featuring an iconic Frederick Douglass speech: “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?”
There will be a community reading and an open discussion of the speech.
After the discussion, guests can take part in an interactive drum circle, led by percussionist Cornell Coley. Drums will be provided, and no experience is necessary.
It will be “a chance for all ages to come together and explore rhythm and community in a shared experience,” the press release said.
This program is possible with the support of a grant from Mass Humanities and the Mass Cultural Council.
To learn more about the Bristol Black Collective
The Bristol Black Collective is “committed to preserving and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Black history and culture in Bristol County and beyond,” the press release said.
They offer various programs and cultural events throughout the year.
For more information, event updates, and volunteer and donation opportunities visit www.bristolblackcollective.org.
Check out was real simple, can't wait for the tote bag