GREEN BAY, Wis. (WBAY) – The Green Bay organization We All Rise is hosting its fifth annual Juneteenth celebration next week.
President Biden signed a law in 2021 that made June 19, or Juneteenth, a federal holiday. It commemorates the day in 1865 when the last enslaved people in the United States learned they were free, more than two years after then-President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation that liberated slaves in the Confederacy during the Civil War.
Generations of Black Americans have celebrated Juneteenth, which marks the enforcement of the proclamation in Texas with the Civil War ending in a Union victory.
For this year’s event in Green Bay, We All Rise says this year’s Juneteenth will focus on honoring the strength, resilience, and contributions of Black men.
“As we commemorate Juneteenth, our celebration goes beyond acknowledging the historical significance of emancipation. We emphasize the ongoing journey towards justice, equality, and empowerment,” the organization said in a statement. “We envision sparking conversations that drive positive change, promote unity, and contribute to a future where every Black man is acknowledged, respected, and celebrated as the remarkable individual they are.”
We All Rise says 24 men will be honored at the Juneteenth celebration at 7 p.m., recognized for showing up and fostering care in the community.
We All Rise will host their Juneteenth celebration on June 15th at Joannes Park in Green Bay from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. The event includes a parade, live entertainment, and fireworks.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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