Juneteenth past, present & beyond
Juneteenth and the Emancipation Proclamation are important markers in the history of civil rights, racial justice
June 19 – Juneteenth – is a federally recognized holiday in the United States commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. Juneteenth has been celebrated in the United States, and in Canada, Jamaica, Nigeria, the United Kingdom, and other countries around the world. Juneteenth is also known as "Freedom Day."
2023 celebration
On Monday, June 19, the University of Arizona Beyond Juneteenth Committee hosted "Beyond Legacy: The Next Generation of Justice & Action" to recognize and celebrate the history, achievements, and contributions of African Americans. Guest speakers were Rev. Dr. Bernice King, strategist, peace advocate, and daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Mrs. Coretta Scott King, and Professor Ilyasah Shabazz, award winning author, educator, and daughter of Malcom X and Dr. Betty Shabazz. The event was the culmination of a year-long process of planning, coordinating and scheduling.
Related news: The daughters of MLK and Malcolm X to speak at Centennial Hall on Juneteenth (6/8/23)
Historical images
Browse our online archives to see historical images such as the (above) American Negro Emancipation Centennial Authority's 100th anniversary celebration of Emancipation, at which many contributions of Black Americans in arts, science, government, and industry were showcased (1963). Ada Peirce McCormick papers [MS 326, Box 6, Folder 5]. Visit University Libraries Special Collections.
Black History in the Borderlands
Created by Special Collections Graduate Assistant, Zöe Harrison, our LibGuide (information sharing tool) highlights an often-overlooked history, and raises awareness about the many contributions Black individuals have made in the Borderlands region, from Baja, California, to Tamaulipas, Mexico. See LibGuide.
University of Arizona Press book recommendations
Our colleagues have hand-selected several books to spotlight Black American authors in honor of Juneteenth. See recommendations.
More info, resources
- Library of Congress: Today in History: June 19
- University of Arizona Beyond Juneteenth Committee
- University of Arizona Beyond Juneteenth Community Resources
- University Libraries' commitment to diversity & inclusivity