Juneteenth Facts & Events in Monterey County

As June 19th approaches, we would like to share some basic Juneteenth facts followed by scheduled events to join the celebrations. Juneteenth honors the end of legal slavery in the United States.

Juneteenth is a Federally recognized Holiday

While Juneteenth began in Texas as a state holiday in 1979, it wasn’t until June 2021 that the entire country followed by recognizing it federally. Celebrating the end of slavery is truly another Independence Day. Senators Markey, Smith, Booker, and Harris introduced Legislation to make Juneteenth a Federal Holiday the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act. The Bill was reintroduced in January 2021 and as of June 17th 2021, President Joe Biden signed the Federal Holiday into Law.  We are ecstatic to see the country come together as a whole to recognize a second Independence Day.

Why did Juneteenth Start in Texas?

After the Emancipation Proclamation was signed in 1863, not every state freed their captives, Texas being one of those states.  The reason for this, the Emancipation Proclamation applied specifically to confederate-controlled states, not the bordering states like Texas. In fact, many slave owners moved to Texas with the idea that having avoided combat, they would be able to continue their barbaric practices in Texas. It took a full two years for the Federal Government to enforce freedom for all in this country.  Juneteenth became a celebration after General Gordon Granger stood on Texas soil and read General Orders No. 3: “The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free.”  What followed was a celebration of freedom so strong it continues to this day.  General Granger’s speech in Galveston that June created freedom for Texas’s 250,000 people.

Juneteenth Celebrations Were a Vehicle for Change

While the Emancipation Proclamation only applied to the Confederate-controlled States, it ultimately became Federal Law in December of 1865 through the 13th Amendment.  During that time, slaves were not encouraged to read or write so word of mouth was the way they began to understand the new law, they were free.  Consequently, freedom took time and the celebration of Freedom, Juneteenth, was an opportunity to spread that message. Juneteenth celebrations grew yet it still took another century for Texas to declare it a state holiday.

Celebrating Juneteenth Helps to End Systemic Racism

So much of American History has been designed to ignore black history. Slavery is still glorified in the classrooms of several southern states. The history curriculum in Alabama still describes slavery as “the happiest way of life” sourced from the  Alabama school curriculum.  As the Tulsa Race Massacre was systematically eliminated from history, a literal massacre on American soil was overlooked by design.  While Juneteenth is slow to be recognized, the importance does not diminish. By recognizing and celebrating Emancipation through Juneteenth celebrations, we are working to stop systemic racism.

As we are a nonprofit specific to Monterey County, we are proud to promote another nonprofit in the area focused on Juneteenth. The Juneteenth Monterey County also fights to eliminate racism and has created an incredible Juneteenth Celebration.

June 15th- 5th Annual Juneteenth Freedom Celebration

1pm at Laguna Grande Park, Lakeside 1&2

Live entertainment hosted by Mr. Active and Attractive! DJ Quelly Quell will keep the party going, while the West Coast Blues Society brings the soulful sounds. You won't want to miss the headliner, Artist, Motivational Speaker and Comedian, Mistah Fab. Plus, spoken word by Liyah and the Black National Anthem sung by Lynnea M.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to hear from the legendary Danny Glover! His powerful voice and activism have made a lasting impact. This will be an unforgettable event filled with music, food, vendors, and inspirational speakers.

 Bring the whole family! While you soak up the vibes and history, the kids can go wild in the Dinosaur Adventure Kids Zone - games, jump houses, mechanical bull, activities, and tons of fun await! Don't miss out on this epic day of family fun as there is also a car show! Something for everyone.

If you believe in our mission to Eliminate Racism and Empower Women, please consider donating to the YWCA-MC.