As we approach Juneteenth, we come together to celebrate the resilience, strength, and spirit of our diverse community.
Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union General Gordon Granger reached Galveston, Texas, to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation. Even though the Emancipation Proclamation was issued over two years prior, this day marks the end of slavery in the United States. Black Texans organized a “Jubilee Day” the following year to commemorate the date, and over the last 159 years the celebrations have spread across the country. In 2021, President Joe Biden declared Juneteenth a federal holiday.
We invite you to join the Office of EDI on Tuesday, June 18, noon - 1 p.m., in the UMSON lobby in Baltimore for a social hour celebrating both Juneteenth and Pride month. We encourage you to come wearing your most vibrant colors!
As we honor Juneteenth, let us reflect on the progress we have made and recommit ourselves to the ongoing journey toward a more just and equitable society. In UniSON: together we commit, together we act.
For more opportunities to celebrate Juneteenth, check out these events happening at UMB and in the community:
School of Social Work: Protecting Black Wealth
Wednesday, June 12 | 10 – 11:30 a.m. | SSW Auditorium
Join the School of Social Work for an enlightening event focused on safeguarding the wealth, health, and overall well-being of the Black community. "Protecting Black Wealth" delves into crucial aspects of financial stability, physical health, and mental wellness, while exploring their intricate connections and offering actionable insights. This event serves as a platform for meaningful dialogue, practical guidance, and community empowerment. Together, let's embark on a journey toward holistic well-being and prosperity for generations to come.
School of Social Work: Juneteenth Community Day
Thursday, June 13 | 4 – 6 p.m. | The parking lot across from the UMB Community Engagement Center, 873 W. Baltimore St.
This is a live and in-person celebration of everything BLACK! Celebrate the ending of chattel slavery in the United States through food, giveaways, and music. Wear a Juneteenth T-shirt and join the celebration at the UMB Community Engagement Center, 873 W. Baltimore St.
The Walters Art Museum: Moving Forward and Beyond – A Juneteenth Celebration
Saturday, June 15 | 2 – 3 p.m. | 600 N. Charles St.
Honoring the Juneteenth holiday, The Walters Art Museum invites audiences to enjoy a musical and operatic performance by award-winning singer Alexandria Crichlow and professor and accomplished pianist Dr. Samuel Springer. This performance celebrates the African diaspora with a selection of aria from different genres and cultures. Join us for a musical journey with talent from Morgan State University.
Enoch Pratt Free Library: In Celebration of Juneteenth
Tuesday, June 18 | 7 p.m. | Central Library, Poe Room, 400 Cathedral St.
How much do you know about Juneteenth? What are the origins of this holiday celebration day in the United States, and why does it resonate with us? Discover the story of Juneteenth during a talk by Mr. Bradley Alston, Baltimore’s Black History maven. The presentation will focus on the advent of the Juneteenth Holiday. There will be questions and answers at the end of the talk.