Juneteenth recognizes the resilience, strength and progress made in the United States after more than 200 years of slavery, commemorating the day when Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas on June 19, 1865, with 2,000 Union troops to proclaim more than 250,000 enslaved Black people in the state were free — two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation.
In 2021, Juneteenth was signed as a federal holiday, the first approved holiday since Martin Luther King Jr. Day in 1983. Juneteenth is a day to celebrate the freedom of African Americans, and to reflect on it also shines a light on the systematic challenges and discrimination still impacting Black and Brown communities today.
Juneteenth falls on Wednesday, June 19. Here are some ways to commemorate the holiday in the Binghamton area on Wednesday and throughout the week.
Did we miss one? Send your information to KCGrant@pressconnects.com.
Binghamton University 5K Fun Run
When: 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 18 at 11 a.m.
Where: Binghamton University’s Old Union Hall
This is Binghamton University’s first Juneteenth outdoor event connecting students with the local community. Free and open to the public, all ages are welcome to participate in the 1.3-mile route. Water, healthy snacks and a free T-shirt for the first 100 participants will be provided. Come out to learn about Juneteenth and get active. Check-in will start at 11 a.m. near the Old Union Hall and there will be paid parking available.
To register visit 2024 Juneteenth 5K Registration and find more information at binghamton.edu
Juneteenth Celebration at The Discovery Center
When: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, June 19
Where: 60 Morgan Road, Binghamton
The Discovery Center will be sharing knowledge about the African American experience for the young minds of the Southern Tier. All activities are included in the general admission fee. For more information visit thediscoverycenter.org/ or call 607-773-8661.
Juneteenth Local Business Showcase
When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday June 19
Where: 601 Harry L Drive, Johnson City
To celebrate Juneteenth and highlight Black-owned businesses in the Southern Tier, local businesses like Caribbean Patty World, Direct Details, Nature’s Design and Many Hats Maintenance will be sharing food, products and services in the Center Court at Oakdale Commons.
Juneteenth Community Celebration
When: noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, June 22
Where: 50 Carroll St., Binghamton
The theme this year is resilience, resources and renewal. Come out and enjoy free food, a chance to shop locally with Black businesses, free haircuts, activities for both adults and kids.
Free Webinars from the Smithsonian
The Smithsonian will offer virtual, free courses to the public, with topics range from discussing the African American perspective, the significance of Juneteenth and stories of America post-slavery. Visit nmaahc.si.edu/events/upcoming to register for one of the many programs offered the week of Juneteenth.
Juneteenth book list
The National Museum of African American History & Culture released a list of books highlighting Black authors and African American history for all ages in honor of Juneteenth. Stop by your local library or pick up a copy at Barnes & Noble in Vestal and other local stores.
