~ Boston Mayor Michelle Wu and the City of Boston are inviting residents, families, and visitors to join in a week-long celebration of Juneteenth. This holiday commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and celebrates Black freedom, resilience, and joy. The events, organized by the Equity and Inclusion Cabinet in partnership with community leaders and cultural institutions, will take place at various locations from June 17 to June 21, 2025.

Mayor Wu expressed the importance of Juneteenth as a call to action for racial equity and an opportunity for the city to reflect on its progress. She encouraged all residents and families to attend one of the events throughout the week to honor and celebrate the triumphs of Boston's Black community.

The week's festivities will kick off with a Juneteenth Flag Raising Ceremony on Tuesday, June 17 at Boston City Hall Plaza. The ceremony will recognize the historical significance of June 19, 1865 - when the last enslaved people in Galveston, Texas were freed more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. This civic gathering aims to honor Black history and acknowledge the ongoing pursuit of justice and equity in Boston and beyond.

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On Wednesday, June 18, a special concert titled "Echoes of Freedom: A Juneteenth Gospel Celebration" will be held at Strand Theatre in Dorchester. The world-renowned Howard University Gospel Choir will perform powerful gospel traditions that uplift the voices and experiences of the Black community. Attendees must register for this event through a provided link.

The week-long observance will conclude with a vibrant community celebration at Franklin Park on Saturday, June 21. The event will feature music, food, dance performances, family-friendly activities, and opportunities for community engagement. Residents from all neighborhoods are invited to come together in remembrance, unity, and joy.

Lori Nelson, Senior Advisor for Racial Justice emphasized that as communities across the country face challenges in preserving Black history and culture, Boston's Juneteenth celebrations hold a deeper meaning. She stated that Black history is American history and Boston has played a significant role in that legacy through its abolitionist movement and ongoing pursuit of racial justice. This week, the city will honor that history and recommit to protecting it for future generations.

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Chief of Equity and Inclusion Mariangely Solis Cervera also spoke about the importance of remembering, honoring, and celebrating Black brilliance in a time when efforts to erase Black history are on the rise. She highlighted Boston's role in shaping Black culture and emphasized that the city is for everyone. This Juneteenth, Boston will honor the past while working towards justice in the present.

All events are free and open to the public. For more information, please visit boston.gov/juneteenth. Accommodations for accessibility can be made by contacting Susan McCollin at susan.mccollin@boston.gov.

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