The Mosaic Templars Cultural Center is gearing up for another great lineup of celebrations to honor Juneteenth, spanning multiple days of fun and remembrance this summer.
Originating in Texas, Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the U.S. With a focus on education, freedom and community, the day has changed a bit since the original African American Emancipation Day was first celebrated in 1865, but the heart and message remain the same.
To celebrate Juneteenth, the MTCC is once again hosting its free Juneteenth in da Rock festival on Saturday, June 21, with even more events “bridging the gap between history and contemporary celebration.” At Ninth Street block party, attendees will find food trucks, activities for kids, vendor booths, educational opportunities and more, as well as a day full of live music including Grammy winners Elle Varner and October London.
Earlier that morning, the fourth annual Juneteenth 5K will hit the pavement on a route designed to highlight some of Little Rock’s Black historical sites like Central High, Arkansas Baptist College and Philander Smith College. It starts at 7 a.m. More on that here.
Ahead of Saturday’s events, MTCC again encourages locals to take part in affiliate events throughout the month, which in the past have included film screenings, concerts, yoga and events specifically designed for kids. These partnerships “[showcase] the rich tapestry of African American culture and history” through a local lens while commemorating the holiday.
“Juneteenth is more than just a celebration with music and food, it’s the very foundation of the story and history of our people in America,” says Quantia Fletcher, director of the MTCC. “Juneteenth is a time to pay homage to our ancestors, recognize the past and share programming and education opportunities about the experiences of Black Americans.”
For more information on Juneteenth in da Rock, visit the MTCC website, and follow along on Facebook, X and Instagram for the latest.