Juneteenth, also known as Emancipation Day, is a federal and state holiday observed every year on June 19. The date marks the end of enslavement in the U.S., on June 19, 1865.

Macomb will celebrate Juneteenth by co-hosting an online presentation from Mama Jatu, a storyteller and educator with the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History.

How will Macomb celebrate Juneteenth?

The college is co-hosting Jatu’s virtual presentation, which will focus on the history of the day and how it is celebrated, along with Henry Ford Community College and Oakland Community College. Activities for students, faculty and staff are also planned.

“Celebrating Juneteenth promotes awareness of the day’s historical significance, fostering understanding and empathy,” said Tiffany Goliday, Executive Director of Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access at Macomb. “The day creates a space for healing and the teaching and learning of true histories.”

Why is Juneteenth historical?

Although the Emancipation Proclamation had been issued by President Lincoln in 1863, it took time for the news to reach all parts of the country. Juneteenth, in 1865, is the day enslavement officially ended.  In 2021, President Joe Biden declared June 19 a federal holiday in the United States.  Additionally, in 2023, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed legislation declaring June 19 as Juneteenth, commemorating the end of slavery.

What does the word Juneteenth mean?

The holiday’s name is a blending of words that represents the month of June and the date of the 19. Juneteenth encapsulates both words.

How to listen to Mama Jatu’s presentation

Mama Jatu’s presentation will take place June 17 at noon.  To register for the event, please visit the Eventbrite website at Juneteenth Speaker Tickets, Mon, Jun 17, 2024 at 12:00 PM | Eventbrite.