June 17, 2022 - This weekend marks the annual celebration of Juneteenth. While this day of recognition has been celebrated throughout the country for over 150 years, this is only the second year that it has been a nationally recognized holiday. The Shaker Heights Schools recognizes Juneteenth as a holiday, and our offices will be closed on Monday, June 20 in observance.
The History of Juneteenth:
Despite the Emancipation Proclamation being signed by Abraham Lincoln in 1863, it took two and a half years for the news to reach all slaves of their freedom. June 19 is the day that Union troops entered Galveston, Texas to guarantee that all enslaved people were freed. Over a century later, June 19 is widely celebrated throughout the United States, but commonly known as Juneteenth. Juneteenth was formally established as a federal holiday in June of 2021. In addition to the last of enslaved people being freed, Juneteenth is a day for the celebration of Black culture and pride.
Ways to Celebrate in and Around Cleveland:
Cleveland Juneteenth Freedom Fest
Located at Mall C, June 18, noon - 10 p.m.
Mx. Juneteenth: A Black and Queer Liberation Celebration
Located at 4701 Perkins Ave, June 18, noon - 6 p.m.
Juneteenth Celebration and Makers Market at Van Aken District
Van Aken District, Shaker Heights, June 18, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
For a list of additional celebrations, click here.