Juneteenth marks the date of June 19, 1865, when people who were enslaved in Texas, learned that they were free, more than two whole years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation. In New Jersey, Juneteenth is observed as a state and public holiday. Many people may not know that New Jersey was the last northern state to end slavery and that some African American people were still enslaved in the state even after Juneteenth. Celebrating Juneteenth is a way of acknowledging and confronting this painful history. This day not only commemorates the end of slavery in the United States, but also celebrates freedom, culture, and the rich history of African Americans. Juneteenth is also known as Freedom Day, Jubilee Day, Liberation Day, or Emancipation Day. Here are some suggestions on ways you can honor this important occasion.
Educate yourself and others about the history and the significance of Juneteenth. You can read books, watch documentaries, listen to podcasts, attend webinars or visit a local museum that explores the history and meaning of Black History in America.
Underground Railroad Museum of Burlington County
This museum is a tribute to the brave people who fled to freedom through the Underground Railroad in New Jersey. Discover the stories of the local heroes who risked their lives to help them on their journey.
Salem County Historical Society Museum
Visit the Salem County Historical Society Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of the area. You can see exhibits on the Underground Railroad and more. Explore the stories of the African American community in Salem County from colonial times to the present.
Support Black owned Businesses and Organizations. By patronizing these businesses, you are supporting the economic empowerment and growth of the Black Community. Some local businesses you can support are:
Striped Lion Distilling
Striped Lion Distilling is a small-batch, rum-centric craft distillery in Woodbury, New Jersey. Our passion is rum, and our mission is to share our love and knowledge of rum with others. Whether you are a fellow rum enthusiast, a rum novice, or somewhere in-between – come visit us to learn more about exploring our favorite distilled spirit!
Corrine’s Place
Corinne’s Place was established in 1989 by Camden, NJ native, Corinne Bradley-Powers – serving a piece of the south in the north and sharing the taste of Southern soul food with the Camden community. Corinne’s Place is devoted to providing comfort and healing to the soul. In 2022, the restaurant won the “America’s Classics Award” from the James Beard Foundation, as one of only six restaurants nationwide to be honored in the food industry.
Aunt Berta’s Kitchen
This soul food outpost features Cajun-accented cooking, family deals & special ‘Sunday Supper’ meals.
Donate to Organizations. By donating to organizations that work for racial justice and equity, you are supporting their efforts to fight discrimination, promote education, and empower communities. Here are some resources you can use to find appropriate organizations:
Juneteenth highlights the resilience, solidarity, and culture of the Black Community. Join in on the Celebration!
Juneteenth Festival at Mill Creek Park
Join us for great food, music, fun, and cultural celebration at Millcreek Park in Willingboro on June 17th from 12pm to 4pm. Today, Juneteenth is recognized for more than the ending of slavery. The celebration of Juneteenth highlights African American heritage and culture, freedom, and education. Join us for great food, music, fun, and cultural celebration!
Juneteenth Celebration in Evesham Township
Juneteenth is the nation’s oldest commemoration of the end to slavery! The day commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers arrived in Texas with news that the Civil War had ended. The event runs from 11:00 am until 3:00 pm on Saturday, June 17th and will feature music, food, vendors, speakers, performances and more!
Burlington Freedom Day 2023
Celebrate Juneteenth on June 17th and Sun June 18th at the beautiful Wiggins Waterfront Park from 2pm to 7pm. The free two-day event includes music, food, vendors, a kid zone, crafts, games, and free lunch. The event concludes on Sunday with “Praise on the Promenade: A Gospel Music Celebration.”
Juneteenth in the Park
The Annual Juneteenth Celebration will be held at Stewart Lake Park on June 17, 2023. This fun, family-friendly event will be a festival elevating Juneteenth throughout the state of New Jersey. It will feature unique entertainment, music, food, and dancing. There will be face painting for the kids, a variety of historical and educational exhibits, artistic displays, and recreation.
Juneteenth Celebration in Salem
You won’t want to miss this awesome FREE event at Mt. Zion Baptist Church from 12pm-4pm. Join us for a weekend of recognition, restoration and celebration!
Sing & Praise!
Join us for a soul-stirring, gospel celebration of Juneteenth and African American Music Appreciation Month at Haddonfield United Methodist Church on June 18th from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM.
Juneteenth is a day to honor the past, celebrate the present, and envision the future. Whether you choose to attend an event, learn something new, support a business, or take action for justice, you can make this Juneteenth a meaningful and memorable one!