The City of West Hollywood is poised to expand its annual Juneteenth celebration this year, with the City Council set to consider increasing the event’s budget from $2,000 to $10,000 at its February 18 meeting. The expanded funds will support a larger program featuring Black-owned vendors and business owners, speakers, and live entertainment at West Hollywood Park on June 21.
The proposed increase comes at the request of the Social Justice Advisory Board, which has been working on plans to grow the event’s reach and impact. If approved, the city will also waive associated fees, including facility use and parking costs, for an estimated value of $8,550.
Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, marks the announcement of the end of slavery in the United States in 1865. The city began officially recognizing the holiday in 2020 and hosted its first flag-raising ceremony in 2022. Last year’s event featured an author talk with UC Berkeley professor Dylan Penningroth, whose book Before the Movement explores the history of Black civil rights beyond well-known narratives.
This year’s programming will include a speaker stage, panel discussions, and booths highlighting local Black-owned businesses and nonprofits. The city hopes the expanded event will build community engagement while reaffirming its commitment to social justice and diversity.
According to the staff report prepared by the Community Services Department, the additional funding reflects rising event production costs and aligns the Juneteenth budget with similar city events like the Transgender Day of Remembrance and the Rainbow Key Awards. The report notes that the event also serves as part of the Social Justice Advisory Board’s broader work plan to promote equity and inclusion.
Community members can look forward to a diverse array of activities, including performances by local artists and discussions with community leaders about the significance of Juneteenth and the ongoing fight for racial justice. The event will also provide a platform for Black-owned businesses to showcase their goods and services.
The Juneteenth annual event is scheduled for Saturday, June 21, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at West Hollywood Park, and organizers anticipate a larger turnout than previous years due to the increased scope and enhanced promotional efforts. Marketing for the event will include outreach through the city’s website, social media channels, and local press.
The City Council meeting discussing the proposal will take place on February 18 at 6 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 625 N. San Vicente Boulevard. If you wish to make a public comment and are attending in-person you will complete a Speaker Slip in Council Chambers. If you’d like to comment remotely, follow these directions.
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