June 19th — also known as Juneteenth, Emancipation Day, or Freedom Day — marks the official end of slavery in the United States, with the last slaves in the United States were read the Emancipation Proclamation and given their freedom. In 2021, President Biden made Juneteenth a federal holiday in the U.S. to commemorate the landmark day.
Here are a few ways you can participate in this meaningful day by commemorating Juneteenth here in D.C.:
Supporting local black-owned businesses & restaurants
There are a lot of incredible black-owned and operated shops, services, and restaurants in the D.C. area that more than deserve the love and attention you could give them this Juneteenth.
Whether you want to shop at local black-owned businesses or dine out at one of D.C.’s top black-owned restaurants, you can’t go wrong!
The important thing is that this small gesture of supporting these local businesses, however insignificant it may seem, helps the local community to continue to grow and develop.
Explore D.C.’s museums and their exhibits on Juneteenth
- Attend the Juneteenth Freedom Celebration at Anacostia Community Museum – This Wednesday at the Anacostia Community Museum from 10 am to 5 pm, reserve your spot join in the celebration.
- The Kennedy Center is hosting a free immersive performing and visual art experience! (June 19th at 6 pm)
Join in the public celebrations
- The First Annual Juneteenth in the District Celebration on Bryant Street – From 10 am to 4 pm this Wednesday, FITDC & Bryant Street are collaborating to host its first-ever Juneteenth Street Festival.