Juneteenth is a celebratory landmark of freedom and sovereignty informed by the announcement of the United States’ Emancipation Proclamation written and signed by Abraham Lincoln. On June 19th 1865, Union Army Major General Gordon Granger read the proclamation to enslaved people and slave owners in Galveston, Texas:
“The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free…”
—General Gordon Granger
As the years progressed, different states celebrated Juneteenth by hosting festivals and parades, however, it has been documented that San Francisco’s Juneteenth holds the unique distinction of being the longest, continuously running urban Juneteenth celebration, both inside or outside of Texas. June 19, 2021 marked a milestone, where President Joe Biden proclaimed this day as Juneteenth Day of Observance.
San Francisco is a world-class city and a premier global destination for Juneteenth festivities, including the main event: a flagship parade and celebration in the heart of the City that engages, inspires, and highlights unifying Black vibrancy.
Volunteer at the Inaugural Juneteenth Parade with Livable City on Sat, Jun 10th from 11am-2pm. For more information, email [email protected]
