Celebrate Juneteenth
Commemorating Juneteenth in Port Arthur
Port Arthur has a rich history of celebrating Juneteenth. Families gather to remember history and celebrate progress and the future. Juneteenth is now a federal holiday, and it’s celebrated on June 19th to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States.
Looking to celebrate and commemorate Juneteenth in 2022 but not sure where to start? Here are a few ways to celebrate and get involved in Juneteenth this year:
Learn the Whole History
Maybe you’ve heard of Juneteenth, but do you know the story behind the day? This historical event dates back to June 19, 1865, when enslaved African Americans in Texas learned that they were free. The Emancipation Proclamation declared that as of Jan. 1, 1863, all enslaved people Southern states were free. Yet it took two years for news to spread to Texas and for officials there to announce slavery abolished. Juneteenth is known as Freedom Day and/or Emancipation Day. Six months later, the 15th Amendment outlawed slavery.
Slavery was outlawed nationwide with the ratification of the 15th Amendment six months later. Although June 19, 1865 marks the end of slavery, the ending is not so cut and dry. It’s important to learn more about Juneteenth and all of the events leading up to it. Take a video tour from the National Museum of African American History & Culture or check out this list of notable list of children’s books to read together with the kids.
Attend a Juneteenth Celebration in Port Arthur
As we’ve noted, this season deserves observation. Port Arthur has a long history of commemorating Juneteenth. At 10 a.m. on June 10, join in a flag raising. Enjoy Jazz in the Park after that. Grab a bite from food vendors. All this will be at the Jefferson County Subcourthouse Park, 525 Lakeshore Drive. Precinct 3 Commissioner Michael Shane Sinegal will host activities. Want to know more? Call (409) 983-8300.
Juneteenth Celebration in More Detail
Support Black Owned Businesses
This is a season to appreciate and support black-owned businesses in your community. Know a friend who owns a bakery, a clothing store or tire shop? Here’s a chance to invest in their business and the future of our community by showing support and shopping local.
Take the “Soul of Port Arthur” Tour
Port Arthur residents represent many cultures, and there are many African-American sites and stories. Wrap up or kick off your Juneteenth Celebration by browsing and visiting a few historical sites and notable attractions in Port Arthur on our Soul of Port Arthur: African American Tour below:
