Discover Juneteenth in Philadelphia

By: Sam Conway

A trek along Galveston’s rugged beaches, just south of Houston, will reveal the land’s many secrets, and its deadly relationship with the gulf. It was here, on June 19, 1865, that Union General Gordon Granger announced the emancipation of enslaved people in Texas, two and a half years after Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. Now known as Juneteenth, this day commemorates the end of slavery in the United States and serves as a constant reminder of the ongoing struggle for civil rights in America.

They say knowledge is power. Fortunately, when it comes to Juneteenth, there’s no shortage of learning opportunities. As a Philadelphia native, I thought I’d share some city-wide events, for locals to explore. 

The African American Museum, situated in the heart of the city, hosts exhibitions and programs that delve into the rich history and culture of African Americans—a fantastic resource for those hoping to deepen their understanding of significant events and the broader African American experience. 

The Philadelphia Juneteenth Parade and Festival provides another great opportunity to celebrate this important holiday, uniting the community through music, dance, and cultural displays. Educational workshops and discussions hosted by local universities, cultural institutions, and community centers around Juneteenth also offer opportunities to engage with scholars and activists, to better understand the holiday’s significance, all the while supporting Black-owned businesses in Philadelphia. By supporting these initiatives, we can foster economic empowerment within the African American community and nurture a more inclusive and equitable society.