STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Staten Island will join thousands of communities nationwide in marking Juneteenth, a day of observance that marks the moment in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Texas received word that they had been freed.
This day, which was designated a federal holiday in 2021, has been celebrated by African Americans for generations, as both a time of solemn remembrance and festivities.
This year, two Staten Island events are planned in honor of the holiday.
Freedom Parade and Festival
The fourth annual Juneteenth Freedom Parade and Festival, hosted by Roc-A-Natural Cultural Foundation Inc., in collaboration with community partners, will take place Saturday, June 14.
The event will include an historical re-enactment by the Staten Island Juneteenth Freedom Players, live performances, specialty vendors and a DJ. There will be a libation, during which the Fellowship Baptist Church Choir will perform, and there will also be a raising of the Juneteenth flag.
The flag uses the red, white and blue colors of the American flag with a bursting star, representative of the new beginnings for formerly enslaved peoples.
The parade lineup, which includes the Port Richmond High School Color Guard, will begin at 11 a.m. on School Road and Bay Street, and the event will step off at noon. The extended festivities are scheduled from noon to 6 p.m. at Tappen Park in Stapleton.
Freedom Festival
The Staten Island Community Alliance, alongside the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden and Staten Island’s leading Black-led organizations, is hosting the fifth annual Juneteenth Freedom Festival on Saturday, June 21.
This year, the event is honoring family, freedom and future, in a “Family Reunion” style festival. The event will include a Libation & Candle Lighting Ceremony, live music and dance performances, art exhibits, and cultural displays. There will also be a food and craft market, as well as a “Health and Wellness Village,” specializing in mind, body and spirit services.
For children, the Staten Island Museum and the Staten Island Children’s Museum will be offering free admission and activities throughout the event.
This homecoming-like festival is scheduled from noon to 6 p.m. at the South Meadow, Tuscan Garden, and Building P Lobby at Snug Harbor Cultural Center in Livingston. Admission is free, but prior registration is requested at www.snug-harbor.org.
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