Juneteenth, celebrated each year on June 19, became an official state holiday in May 2023 when Gov Tim Walz signed into law a bill supporting recognition of the date on which slavery was finally abolished in the United States. In observance of the holiday, City buildings will be closed Monday, June 19 and no public business will be conducted.
Juneteenth commemorates the day slavery was outlawed in Texas on June 19, 1865. It has been celebrated by Black Americans for decades as it marks the day that the final enslaved African Americans learned they were free. In some communities Juneteenth is known as “Freedom Day” or the “Second Independence Day.”
“Let’s Talk About It, GV”
In the days leading up to Juneteenth, the City of Golden Valley will celebrate by sharing stories of what the holiday means to local residents. “Let’s Talk About It, GV” is a new platform to share community conversations and perspectives about culturally relevant topics. The Juneteenth edition of “Let’s Talk About It, GV” will feature residents’ nuanced viewpoints about the holiday and what it means to them. Watch for more information on the City’s website and social media channels.
"Kumbayah: The Juneteenth Story" At Breck School
Another local celebration will take place Friday, June 16 at Breck School, where Sweet Potato Comfort Pie (SPCP) of Golden Valley and the Minnesota Humanities Center are partnering to present the original play "Kumbayah: The Juneteenth Story." Performances are at 10 am and 7 pm (which includes a 5:30 pm pre-show reception). Get more information and register here.
More Juneteenth Events
Learn More About Juneteenth