Upcoming Juneteenth Celebrations Highlight Community and History

STARK COUNTY, Ohio — Juneteenth, a federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery, is approaching on June 19. This day marks the moment in 1865 when enslaved Black people in Texas learned of their freedom. Major General Gordon Granger announced their emancipation, prompting the name ‘Juneteenth,’ a blend of ‘June’ and ‘nineteenth.’

The holiday was formally recognized as a federal holiday in 2021. In Stark County, various events are planned to celebrate, including community gatherings and cultural activities aimed at honoring the heritage and accomplishments of Black Americans.

This year, post offices will be closed in observance of the federal holiday, with the U.S. Postal Service informing the Canton Repository of service interruptions. However, many grocery stores and other businesses, such as Walmart and Target, are expected to remain open.

In Stark County, residents can partake in events beginning on Saturday, June 14, when a gathering is scheduled at Boulevard, featuring around 200 Black-owned businesses. This attention to local entrepreneurship underlines the celebration’s aim to uplift the community.

Celebrations in Florida will also resonate with themes of resilience and history. A parade is set for Saturday, June 21, in Asbury Park, honoring the significance of the location, which has its own history of social unrest.

Local leaders stress the importance of remembering the struggles of the past while celebrating the progress made. Dianne Harris, a member of the Neptune Township School Board, highlighted the need for awareness and action within communities of color, saying, “We got to know what is going on and what our rights are.”n

Juneteenth serves as a powerful reminder of African American contributions to society. With numerous events planned, the observances this year are poised to resonate with messages of unity and resilience.