Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. From its Galveston, Texas, origin in 1865, the observance of June 19th as the African American Emancipation Day has spread across the United States and beyond.
Today, Juneteenth commemorates African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement. It is a day, a week, and in some areas a month marked with celebrations, guest speakers, picnics and family gatherings. It is a time for reflection and rejoicing. It is a time for assessment, self-improvement and for planning the future. Its growing popularity signifies a level of maturity and dignity in America long overdue. In cities across the country, people of all races, nationalities and religions are joining hands to truthfully acknowledge a period in our history that shaped and continues to influence our society today. Sensitized to the conditions and experiences of others, only then can we make significant and lasting improvements in our society.
As part of the local Juneteenth celebration, Mosaic Templars Cultural Center hosts a day long event featuring activities, vendors, food and entertainment for the entire community. The 2012 Juneteenth Celebration boasted over 900 attendees from across the state, with over 50 participating vendors, performers, and sponsors. We invite businesses and organizations to join in this celebration with us by securing a vendor booth or purchasing a sponsorship for the event.
The Emancipation Proclamation
Courtesy the Library of Congress
June 14 - Theatrical Production of S. Juain Young's Voices From The Front Porch at 6 p.m.
June 15 - Juneteenth Street Festival 11a.m. to 5p.m.
June 20 - Living History Performance at 6 p.m.
The Mosaic Templars Cultural Center is a museum of the Department of Arkansas Heritage. Our mission is to collect, preserve, interpret and celebrate Arkansas's African American history, culture, and community from 1870 to the present, and to inform and educate the public about African American's achievements - especially in business, politics, and the arts.
Programs such as the annual Juneteenth celebration provide the museum an opportunity to engage the community in the rich history and culture of African Americans across the state and the country. Our vision is for people of all ethnic, religious, and economic backgrounds to join together in celebration and revelation on the numerous contributions and accomplishments of African Americans.
We also strive to engage other community organizations to partner with us by supporting our mission to serve the community and the state of Arkansas.
Organizations or individuals who would like to contribute to the event as a sponsor or as an event vendor must return the completed form and payment by mail or in person to the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center. For more information, contact Chris Hancock at 501-683-3620 or email chrisH@arkansasheritage.org.