This is the third year that Juneteenth enjoys status as a federal holiday, a day celebrating the end of chattel slavery throughout the United States, and particularly remembering the liberation of African-Americans in Texas, the last state to come into compliance with the Emancipation Proclamation.
The City of Berkeley has a robust Juneteenth celebration that kicks off with an interfaith prayer service put on by our friends at McGee Avenue Baptist Church on Sun., June 11 at 11 am. You can see the whole lineup of moving, instructive and celebratory activities here. Some of us will be heading down to the festivities on Sun., June 18 after worship, and you are invited to come as a group to support this day, its meaning and the Black-owned businesses and artists represented at the festival!
We will honor the day in our own congregation on Sun., June 18 with a brief liturgy; a red velvet cake from Souley Vegan in Oakland, special food, & an interactive learning exhibit at the After Party, and a teaching tool created by Moderator Emeritus Kara Korbel-Chinula.