Juneteenth is a holiday that celebrates the end of slavery in the United States. It is also a time to reflect on the legacy of slavery and the ongoing fight for racial justice. As Christians, we have a special responsibility to remember and honor the victims of slavery, and to work for a more just and equitable society.
The history of Juneteenth is long and complex. In 1865, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce that slavery had been abolished. This news was met with great joy by the enslaved people of Texas, who had been held in bondage for generations. They celebrated their freedom with parades, picnics, and religious services.
Juneteenth has been celebrated annually in Texas ever since. In recent years, it has become a national holiday, and is celebrated by people of all races and faiths. As Christians, we can celebrate Juneteenth as a day of freedom and liberation. We can also use this day to reflect on the ways in which our own society still falls short of the ideals of freedom and equality.
There are many ways to celebrate Juneteenth in Minneapolis. Here are a few suggestions (Click on the photos for more info):
- Attend a Juneteenth celebration. There are many events happening in the Twin Cities, including festivals, concerts, and educational programs.
- Learn more about the history of slavery and the Civil War. There are many museums and historical sites in the Twin Cities that offer exhibits on these topics.
- Get involved in the fight for racial justice. There are many organizations in the Twin Cities that are working to create a more just and equitable society.
Juneteenth is a day to celebrate freedom and liberation. It is also a day to reflect on the work that still needs to be done to create a more just and equitable society. As Christians, we have a special responsibility to remember and honor the victims of slavery, and to work for a more just and equitable society.
Here are some resources and activities happening in Minneapolis MN on Juneteenth:
Juneteenth Festival: This free festival will feature music, food, and entertainment, as well as educational programs about the history of Juneteenth. It will be held at Powderhorn Park on June 19th from 12pm to 6pm.
Juneteenth Freedom Day Parade: This parade will celebrate the end of slavery and the ongoing fight for racial justice. It will be held on June 19th at 10am in downtown Minneapolis.
Juneteenth Celebration at the Minnesota History Center: This event will feature exhibits, speakers, and performances about the history of slavery and the Civil War. It will be held at the Minnesota History Center on June 18th from 6pm to 9pm.
Juneteenth at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts: This event will feature a lecture, discussion, and reception on the topic of race and representation in art. It will be held at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts on June 19th from 2pm to 4pm.
For more information or questions on additional resources, contact our Director of Public Ministry, Dr. Kelly Sherman-Conroy – kelly@nativitychurch.org