Berkeley Readies For Juneteenth Festival

BERKELEY, CA — Communities around the country this weekend will hold inaugural Juneteenth celebrations.

For Berkeley, the holiday that commemorates the end of slavery, is no novel event.

And this weekend, the East Bay city will hold the 35th Annual Berkeley Juneteenth Festival.

The festival is scheduled to be held Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Adeline Street and Alcatraz Avenue.

The event will feature, music, ethnic art and crafts, food vendors and family-friendly entertainment.

Juneteenth originated in Galveston, Texas in 1865 and last year was declared a federal holiday.

It was not until June 19, 1865, that Texas residents learned that slavery had been abolished by President Abraham Lincoln's signing of the Emancipation Proclamation on Jan. 1, 1863, and the former slaves immediately celebrated.

"Today Juneteenth commemorates African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement," according to a description on the holiday's official website.

"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."

To learn more about this event, visit here.