Where and how you can celebrate Juneteenth

By Meredith Bailey and Jessica Mathews

Juneteenth recognizes a pivotal moment in our country’s history — when more than 250,000 enslaved people in Texas finally learned that the American Civil War had ended and that they were free.

This joyful news arrived on June 19, 1865, more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation. Enslaved communities in Texas were the last to hear about their liberation.

Juneteenth (a combination of June and 19th) commemorates this announcement and the end of slavery in the United States. Many Black communities have been celebrating this momentous anniversary for more than a century via festivals, parades, storytelling, live music and more.

Now a federal and state holiday, Juneteenth is an opportunity to acknowledge our past and honor the freedom, rich history and diverse culture of Black Americans.

Multiple Juneteenth events are taking place across our communities. Find an event near you or learn more about Juneteenth by listening to this New York Times podcast or visiting the National Museum of African American History & Culture website.

How to support the Black/African American community

“Juneteenth provides a time of reflection on our history, acknowledging and recognizing those who fought injustices and died for delayed freedom within the Black community,” says Shareka Fortier, chief belonging officer for MultiCare. “It’s also a time to celebrate the timeless and distinctly beautiful talents and contributions of Black Americans.”

Here are some ways you can support the Black/African American community on Juneteenth and beyond.

• Support Black-owned businesses. Not sure how to find them? View this Black business directory.
• Consider donating to Black nonprofits, or charities that promote and create opportunities for the Black community.
• Educate yourself on Black history. Explore the rich and diverse history of the contributions of Black Americans and learn more about the unsung heroes of Black history, all year round.

Connect with MultiCare at Juneteenth in Tacoma

In Tacoma, Juneteenth Celebration: A Road to Economic Freedom & Financial Stability will be held at Stewart Heights Park in Tacoma on Wednesday, June 19, from 11am to 5pm. Enjoy live performances and speakers, more than 100 vendors, an interactive kids’ zone and other activities.

Stop by the MultiCare booth for a chance to meet some of our recruiters, community services team members and Belonging Advisory Council members, get MultiCare swag, and more.