All you need to know about Juneteenth in Seattle

Jun 19 2020, 8:24 pm

In previous years, you may not have heard of Friday’s holiday, Juneteenth.

This year, however, following the death of unarmed Black man George Floyd, the day is being brought front and centre.

June 19, commonly known as Juneteenth, celebrates the end of slavery in the United States, two years after President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. Even after the Proclamation, states like Texas were slow to free its own citizens. It wasn’t until June 19, 1865, in Galveston, Texas, that the remaining slave states were liberated.

Many online have been calling on companies and governments to adopt the date as a holiday and have also decided to take action in their cities.

Here are several Juneteenth marches and protests taking place around Seattle.

Juneteenth Blackout at the CHOP

Enjoy sound healing, Black imagination, and a dance party at the CHOP. The day is a day of healing as well as protesting for policy and systemic change to our systems.

Location: The CHOP
Time: 8 am to 8 pm

The Next Steps Rally! A Not This Time Event

Come out to Judkins Park to hear from over 25 speakers including Mayor Jenny Durkan and King County Executive Dow Constantine. The group will be working towards educating the public on the things in our city and state that have been an impediment to justice, equity, and police accountability.

Location: Judkins Park, Seattle
Time: 1 to 4 pm

Juneteenth March and Celebration

Until 9:30 today, take part in the Juneteenth March and Celebration from 22nd and Madison South on 23rd Avenue to Jimi Hendrix Park.

Location: 22nd and Madison, Seattle
Time: 2 pm to 9:30 pm

With files from Wyatt Fosset.

With coronavirus on the rise, the CDC is reminding individuals who attend events and large gatherings to monitor their health for signs and symptoms of COVID-19. And if you’re not feeling well, they recommend staying home at this time. Keep up with COVID-19 news here.

Alyssa TherrienAlyssa Therrien

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