Event poster / Courtesy
A local Juneteenth celebration is planned on the University of Arkansas Campus this weekend.
The Juneteenth Celebration Committee, along with the University of Arkansas African American Resource Group, is planning an event from 3-7 p.m. on Saturday, June 17 at The Gardens on Campus.
The event will feature live music by R&B artist Sarah Nicole and jazz artist Michael Fields, along with a cookout, ice cream, games, inflatables, a run/jump/throw competition, football toss, basketball shootout, vendor faire, and other activities.
The NWA Community Clinic will also sponsor a health fair where medical and dental providers will conduct screenings to promote healthy living and address general medical questions.
Juneteenth, celebrated annually on the 19th of june, is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery of the United States. It recognizes the historical date of June 19, 1865, where Union General Gordon Granger announced freedom for all slaves in the Southwest in Galveston, Texas following the end of the Civil War.
From the description of the event:
Upon the reading of General Order #3 by General Granger, the former slaves celebrated jubilantly, establishing America’s second Independence Day celebration and the oldest African-American holiday observance. In 2006, the Arkansas Legislature first recognized Juneteenth as a state memorial day commemorated by the issuance of a proclamation from Governor Huckabee.
Today, the celebration still celebrates African American freedom, achievement, and encourages self-development and respect for all cultures.
The Gardens are located near the corner of Razorback Road and Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
For more information about the event, visit diversity.uark.edu.
