When we think of Independence Day, most people think of the Fourth of July, however, for many enslaved African Americans this day was not as significant due to our country’s history of slavery. On July 4th, 1776 the United States declared its Independence, which only signified freedom for a certain segment of America. But on June 19th, 1865 federal troops arrived in Galveston, TX to make sure that any people still enslaved were freed. Hence the date of the holiday.
Juneteenth has since become a national celebration of the ending of slavery in the United States. And there are plenty of events happening around the city for you to get involved in—from educational, engaging conversations to local performances.
Check them out below!
Tuesday June 15th
Honoring and Learning about Juneteenth: A Live Discussion
Learn more about this holiday and its significance and importance and how you can honor it.
Friday June 18th
Center for Black Literature & Culture Book Fest & Juneteenth Celebration hosted by the Indianapolis Public Library.
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
This event will feature local authors and entertainers and is completely free.
.png)
Saturday June 19th
Juneteenth hosted by First Mount Zion Baptist Church
https://www.facebook.com/events/401883860872488/?active_tab=about
Juneteenth Jamboree hosted by The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis
10:00 am – 3:00 PM
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis at 3000 N Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46208
This family friendly event will consist of live performances, local artists , games, and more.
https://www.childrensmuseum.org/juneteenth
RELATED: SUPPORT THESE LOCAL BLACK WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESSES
Juneteenth Jubilee: Remembering the Past. Inspiring the Future. Hosted by Arts for Lawrence
4:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Theater at the Fort at 8920 Otis Ave, Indianapolis, IN
This free community program will be a celebration of Black culture and artistry with guest from across Indianapolis.
Indy Juneteenth Celebration
Indy Night Market Hosted by Growing Places Indy
6:00 pm – 10 pm
Pan Am Plaza at 201 S. Capitol Ave., Indianapolis, IN, 46225
The Indy Night Market is food festival and in celebration of Juneteenth, the event will highlight African American cuisine as well as African American culture through local Black artists, entrepreneurs, and more!
All of our content—including this article—is completely free. However, we’d love if you would please consider supporting our journalism with an Indy Maven membership.
