Juneteenth, also known as Emancipation Day or Freedom Day, commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States, specifically marking the day when news of freedom reached enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865. While Juneteenth has gained national recognition, its roots and significance vary from region to region. In coastal Georgia, this day holds a profound importance for the community, as it both honors the past and celebrates the progress made toward equality and justice.
Historical Background:
Juneteenth traces its origins back to the Emancipation Proclamation, which was issued by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863. While the proclamation declared that all enslaved people in Confederate territory were free, its implementation faced challenges due to the ongoing Civil War. Slavery persisted in many areas until Union forces could secure victories and enforce the Proclamation.
The announcement of freedom arrived in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, when Union General Gordon Granger arrived and read General Order No. 3, proclaiming the end of slavery in Texas. This momentous event, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation, marked a turning point in the struggle for freedom and became the foundation for Juneteenth.
Juneteenth in Coastal Georgia:
In coastal Georgia, Juneteenth carries special significance as the region has a deep connection to African American heritage and the fight for civil rights. Cities like Savannah, Brunswick, and St. Simons Island are known for their rich African American history.
Juneteenth is celebrated throughout the coastal Georgia region with a blend of historical remembrance and festive events. Community gatherings, music performances, and art exhibitions pay tribute to African American culture, resilience, and achievements. These celebrations often include educational workshops, storytelling sessions, and exhibits showcasing the heritage, struggles, and contributions of African Americans.
Importance to the Community:
Juneteenth holds immense significance for the coastal Georgia community. To community leaders and members it serves as a reminder of the progress made in the ongoing struggle for equality and justice, while also acknowledging the work that still lies ahead. Juneteenth celebrations provide a platform for local artists, musicians, and performers to showcase their talents and express their cultural heritage.
LOCAL EVENTS ABOUND FOR THE HOLIDAY
Two years ago, President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law making Juneteenth a federal holiday. Juneteenth celebrates the end of chattel slavery in the United States, which is a reason for all Americans to rejoice. Locally, Juneteenth has been celebrated among community members for some time, and this year there are several events taking place throughout greater Savannah in honor of this important holiday. Join the community in celebrating Juneteenth by attending these freedom festivities and emancipation events.
Bryan County NAACP Juneteenth Freedom Day
The Bryan County NAACP invites the public to attend their third annual Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration, which will take place June 17 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at J.F. Gregory Park. This year’s theme is “A Celebration of Community, Culture and Unity!” It will be a day of food, fellowship and fun featuring guest speakers, arts and crafts vendors and more. There will also be special live performances from talented musicians and vocalists like Dolette McDonald, Huxsie Scott, Basik Lee, Laiken Love, the Bryan County NAACP Choir and more. This celebration is free and all are welcome to attend. Visit bryancountynaacp.org/juneteenth-celebration to learn more.
Savannah African Art Museum Juneteenth Celebration
The Savannah African Art Museum will hold their third annual Juneteenth Celebration on Saturday, June 17 from 11 a.m to 4 p.m. on the museum grounds. The theme for this year’s celebration is “Planting Seeds,” and the festivities will reflect on and honor the past while celebrating the future. The free event will feature music, dancing, spoken word performances, a marketplace, craft activity tables, traditional African food samples, resource tables and more. In addition to the celebration, attendees will be able to enjoy tours of the museum’s West African art collection and performances by the Gullah Geechee Ring Shouters and the Deep Slam Team among others. Attendees are welcome to bring folding chairs as seating will be limited.
Cultural Juneteenth Music Festival
The Daughters of Mary Magdalene and the City of Savannah have come together to present the Cultural Juneteenth Music Festival on Saturday, June 17 at Wells Park. From 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., the park will be bustling with activity. It all starts with the Juneteenth Motorcade Parade followed by live entertainment throughout the day. Performers include JD Music Group and Jimmy Lloyd Brown of Grammy-award winning group Brick, and local gospel and dance groups will take the stage as well. This family friendly event is free and open to the public, and attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and tents for comfort and shade.
Pooler Juneteenth Festival
The Pooler Juneteenth Celebration Committee is hosting their second annual Juneteenth Celebration on June 17 from 12 to 6 p.m. at Tanger Outlets. The celebration is free and open to the public featuring live music, food trucks, vendors, storytellers, games and more. Visit poolerjuneteenth.org/ for more information.
Savannah Juneteenth Fine Arts Festival
Chosen for the Arts will host the first ever Savannah Juneteenth Fine Arts Festival on June 17 from 1 to 7 p.m. at Forsyth Park. The organizers welcome the public to join them in celebrating freedom through music, food and fun giveaways. The festival will include an ancestor tribute, drumming ceremony, gospel concert, storytelling, vendors, food trucks and more. There will be a designated play area for children and exciting kids’ activities. Community organizations will also be present to inform and engage with attendees. The festival is a free local event, so there’s no reason not to come out and enjoy. For more details, visit chosenfta.org/festival-events.
Tybee Juneteenth
Tybee MLK human rights organization will host their third annual Tybee Juneteenth celebration of freedom. The free festival spans three days between June 17 and 19, featuring all sorts of exciting activities to engage and unite community members. On June 17 and 18 between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m., celebrators will gather at Memorial Park to enjoy spoken word, storytelling, children’s arts and crafts, vendors, food trucks and more. There will also be drummers and a live DJ bringing reggae, soca and Afro beat vibes. The weekend will culminate with Wade-In Sunday. On June 19 at 8 a.m., participants will meet at Tybrisa Street to wade into the Atlantic together while the sounds of jubilee from the Saltwata Players and Samba Drummers fill the air. Community members can bring their own instruments to join in the joyful noise as well.
Georgia Southern University's Gullah Geechee Heritage Center will host a grand opening and ribbon cutting on June 19 to coincide with the center's Juneteenth celebration. Local dignitaries including Mayor Van Johnson and other public servants and figures will kick off the event with opening remarks. Attendees can enjoy appearances from local Gullah Geechee artists, and there will also be a special performance from the McIntosh County Shouters. Food and drinks from local vendors will be available. The festivities will take place at 13040 Abercorn St. from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
