This week, San Jose is celebrating Juneteenth — a nationally-recognized holiday commemorating June 19, 1865, the day that federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas to inform enslaved African Americans of their freedom + the end to the Civil War.
Juneteenth has deep roots here in San Jose — we’re home to Juneteenth in the Streets, one of the largest + longest running African American celebrations in Silicon Valley, and in September 2020, our county was the first in California to make Juneteenth a paid holiday.
Read on to learn more about the celebrations this week + how to get involved.
R&B singer Netta Brielle performs at the 2018 Juneteenth in the Park celebration. | Photo via @_philippewarren
🎤 Take to the streets
Here in San Jose, the African American Community Service Agency (AACSA) will host its 41st annual Juneteenth in the Streets Festival on Sat., June 18. The goal? To display the creativity of African American movers + shakers.
On top of food vendors, artists, and retailers — this year’s featured guests will include NBC Bay Area anchor + Emcee Marcus Washington, gospel singer Kierra Sheard, and R&B singer Tamar Braxton.
🎉 Celebrate all week long
But wait — there’s more. The AACSA has organized several other community events leading up to the big day.
- Juneteenth Flag Raising | Today | 5:30-6:30 p.m. | City Hall | Join this formal recognition led by Vice Mayor Chappie Jones.
- Wellness Over Everything | Wed., June 15 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Virtual | Learn self care practices from Black therapists. 🧠
- Happy Hour & Sankofa Open Mic Night | Thurs., June 16 | 6-9 p.m. | Enso Night Club | Express yourself at the local, Black-owned lounge and bar.
- Education Before the Celebration | Fri., June 17 | 6-9 p.m. | Guildhouse | Join in on a cross-generation discussion with local Black revolutionaries. 🎤
🤝 Stay involved
You can stay connected + give back to the AACSA by volunteering, contributing a donation, or becoming a member yourself.