Honor the commemoration of the end of slavery this Saturday by supporting the Black community!
Juneteenth, Freedom Day, or Emancipation Day is celebrated on June 19, to commemorate the end of slavery in America. Juneteenth has become a day, nationwide, where Americans celebrate the African American heritage and culture, but also denouncing racial injustices. To pay respect to the historic moment of our country of the emancipation of slavery, we have compiled a list of things you can do this week to honor the Black community of Philadelphia.
1. Celebrate at the African American Museum
From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 19, Philly’s African American Museum has plans to celebrate this historic event. Partnering with Wawa Welcome America and Visit Philadelphia, festivities will be outside and include educational activities, special foods, local vendors, and musical and dance performances. Additionally, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. the museum will be free for visitors who reserve their admission in advance. In the evening, a Jazz night will be performed by The Arpeggio Jazz Ensemble. Get your tickets now!
2. Participate in Philly’s annual Juneteenth Freedom Day March
Kick-off the day by marching to make Juneteenth a national holiday. The march begins on 52nd Street and Haverford Ave, at 9:30 a.m. to Malcolm X Park. Many Americans believe that the end of slavery must be properly honored by making it a national holiday to recognize the significance of this historical moment and what it means to our country. Indeed, this march is to promote Juneteenth to become a national holiday. This route is significant too because it passes through many Black-owned businesses and is a historical neighborhood for Philly African Americans.
3. Visit the Buy Local, Buy Black pop-up shop
4. Support Black-owned businesses and restaurants
There are so many benefits to supporting local businesses; you develop the community and neighborhood, you make a positive impact on your local economy, you receive better customer service, you help the environment, and you support someone’s dream. Support Black-owned businesses and restaurants, all year round, not only in times of festivities!
5. Purchase from the Vendor Fair at Malcolm X Park
Start by supporting Black-owned businesses right here! Explore and purchase art and trinkets from Black artists and vendors at Malcolm X Park in this Art at the Park exhibit. This Vendor Fair presents all sorts of businesses for you to support to Black community.
6. Explore the end of slavery with these online events hosted by the Museum of the American Revolution
The Museum of the American Revolution is hosting online events all day Saturday, June 19 where you can learn about the history of slavery in American from the comfort of your home. A nice evening would be to order in from a Black-owned restaurant then choose an event to watch, and enjoy your food as you learn about African American history.
[Featured image: Shutterstock]