Juneteenth in our community

Happy Juneteenth!

Juneteenth marks a celebration of freedom. It is also a potent reminder that freedom delayed is freedom denied. Or, as stated in the theme of one of this year’s celebratory events (see below), “We ain’t free … until we all free.”

You can read more about the history of how the impact of the Emancipation Proclamation spread – starting in the states of the Union in 1863, but not reaching Confederate territory until 1865 -- here.

Juneteenth marks an important historic event, but it is also an opportunity for us to celebrate and show respect for Black history, tradition and culture. To celebrate and recognize the federal holiday, UW Tacoma will fly the Pan-African flag from June 14 to 21.

I invite you to mark Juneteenth in whatever way is meaningful to you. You might be inspired by watching Tacoma Poet Laureate Christian Paige recite his poem “Juneteenth.” Here is an excerpt from that poem: “Juneteenth is not just a celebration of our past, but a proclamation of our future, and a declaration that we will never wait to be told that we are free.” (You have to watch the whole thing to appreciate his complex internal rhyming and his rhythms.)

If you would like to mark the holiday in the company of others, here is a list of events throughout our region. Click on the links to learn more about each one:

Downtown Tacoma: June 15, 5-8 p.m., Tollefson Plaza

Wright Park, Tacoma: June 17, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Les Gove Park, Auburn: June 18, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Stewart Heights Park, Tacoma: June 19, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

(The Whole U has published a comprehensive look at the history of Juneteenth, the UW's anti-racism and DEI  initiatives, how to celebrate at home and with others, and how to support Black voices and lives through the UW Combined Fund Drive.)

(Read UW President Ana Mari Cauce's Juneteenth message.)