SOUTH LOS ANGELES — Juneteenth, a day that celebrates the end of slavery, will be observed throughout the region beginning June 14 and continuing through June 21.
A federal holiday since 2021, Juneteenth celebrates the day in 1865 when slaves in Galveston, Texas, were notified by Union soldiers that President Abraham Lincoln had declared them free two years prior.
Probably the biggest Juneteenth celebration in Los Angeles will be held from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. June 19 in Leimert Park. The celebration will include a women’s drum circle and libation ceremony, a performance by a 30-member jazz band, line dancing and DJ sets and a fashion show at 5 p.m.
“Hosting Juneteenth in Leimert Park is deeply meaningful for our community,” said Queen Aminah, head of the Leimert Village Association. “It’s a time for Black people to celebrate our culture, unity, and history — but it’s also an invitation for all communities to come together in harmony.
“While many young people may not fully know the history of Juneteenth due to gaps in education, this celebration offers a powerful way to reconnect, honor our roots and show the next generation the strength of the village. We welcome everyone to join us in this vibrant expression of culture, joy and togetherness.”
One of the earliest celebrations will be held at Col. Allensworth State Park in Earlimart, in the Central Valley. It will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 14. The event offers entertainment and tours of Allensworth, a city founded by Lt. Col. Allen Allensworth, who escaped slavery during the Civil War and became a U.S. Army chaplain.
In 1908 Allensworth and his friends created a Black township outside Delano, California. The stare park system has preserved Allensworth.
Vehicle prices per car begin at $10, and buses begin at $50 with a capacity of 24 or fewer passengers and $75 for buses with 25 or more passengers.
Closer to home, the Los Angeles Public Library hosts its June jubilee in honor of Juneteenth from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. June 14 at Central Library, 630 W. Fifth St.
The celebration will include an African water libation ceremony, family arts and crafts, a story quilts display and a scavenger hunt.
“June Jubilee is more than a celebration — it’s a powerful expression of pride, history and community,” said Valerie Lynne Shaw, president of the Board of Library Commissioners. “By attending June Jubilee, Angelenos not only honor the legacy of Juneteenth but also engage in meaningful reflection and learning that brings us closer together. ”
Roy Campanella Park, 14812 S. Stanford Ave., Compton, will host a Juneteenth event sposnored by the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation from noon to 4 p.m. June 14, offering many family-friendly activities.
The Hyde Park Organization for Empowerment is partnering with U.S Bank and Villareal Market to present “A Celebration of Legacy: Honoring Etha Robinson” at noon June 18 at the U.S. Bank Community Center at Slauson Avenue and Crenshaw Boulevard. The event honors Etha Robinson, founder of the African American Food Association and creator of Mrs. Robinson’s Tea Cakes —recognized as the cookie of Juneteenth.
LaTonya Haven will host the celebration and the keynote will be delivered by Muriel Shabazz.
The Empowerment Congress will hold its annual Juneteenth celebration from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 21 at the Beehive, 961 E. 61st St. The event will be emceed by KBLA’s Tavis Smiley, and headlined by civil rights attorney, Maya Wiley. Although the national holiday is two days prior, the event will be held on the 21st to ensure broad community participation. The event will begin with a keynote address given by attorney Maya Smiley. Empowerment Congress Leadership Team member Pastor Bryon L. Smith Jr. said, “Juneteenth challenges us to rise above what has held us back and recommit to a future where our people can live spiritually, mentally and economically free. It is more than a celebration; it is a call to action.”
Culver City will host it’s Juneteenth celebration from 1 to 4 p.m. June 21 at Ivy Station, 8840 National Blvd.
The event will include a performance of “Lift Every Voice,” live music, kids’ activities, market vendors, community activities and food from vendors.
Erin Herriford is a freelance reporter for Wave Newspapers.
