Juneteenth is a federal holiday that is celebrated nationwide on June 19th. It’s a day to recognize the hardships that slaves endured in the United States.

It’s often referred to as America’s second Independence Day, when over 250,000 slaves were released from captivity in 1865. 2,000 U.S. troops Union arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed into law.

There is a way you can honor that history here in the Twin Ports. The NAACP is hosting their 50th Juneteenth celebration at the Central Hillside Community Center. President of the Duluth chapter, Classie Dudley, says that there is a lot for folks to come see. “We’ll have giveaways, Grandma’s Marathon is setting up an obstacle course and even a free dinner.”

In addition, there will be a community resource fair and plenty of BIPOC local businesses to buy from. For more information, click here.