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June 19 is Juneteenth

Juneteenth graphic with dome

Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States.

On June 19, 1865–more than two months after the Civil War ended and more than 2½ years after U.S. President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation–the Union Army arrived in Galveston, Texas, to enforce the Proclamation and free the last enslaved Black Americans in that state. The day became known as Juneteenth, sometimes also referred to as Jubilee Day, Emancipation Day, Freedom Day or Liberation Day.

The first Juneteenth celebration took place in 1866 in Texas, and people across the United States continue to mark the occasion 158 years later.

At Notre Dame, there are several opportunities to observe the federal holiday and honor the importance of freedom, equality, and inclusivity:

  • June 14, 2 p.m., Legends Patio/Clubside: University Enterprises and Events presents Juneteenth Celebration Through Food. Faculty, staff, and students are invited to enjoy some barbecue and hear from guest speakers Verge “Brother Sage” Gillam, African American griot and community educator at Providing Options, and Scott Barton, assistant professor of Africana studies, as they discuss the historical significance of Juneteenth, its relevance to today’s civil rights movements and the symbolic role of food in its observance.

  • June 14, 3:30 p.m., DeBartolo Performing Arts Center (DPAC) north entrance: DPAC and the Center for Social Concerns will host a Juneteenth Celebration and Resource Fair with informational and artisan booths, free food from local food trucks, music spun by a DJ, and giveaways.

  • June 22, 7 p.m., Leighton Concert Hall at DPAC: UZIMA! Drum and Dance presents Boundless, part of the DPAC Presenting Series' Cultural Collective, will commemorate Juneteenth with an evening of rhythm, resilience, and reverence for our shared journey toward freedom.

To learn more about the history of Juneteenth, check out: