Juneteenth Community Dinner with Dr. Sandra Leconte

Since the fall of 2021, a group of dedicated Highland Park residents has been uniting over shared meals, conversations, and creative ideas at The Art Center Highland Park (TAC). What began as the Community Potluck Dinner—a welcoming space that introduced neighbors to new perspectives and unexpected connections—has evolved into the quarterly CommUNITY Dinners, a cherished event that embodies local inclusivity and mutual understanding.

Originally hosted under the banner “Celebrating the Other,” these dinners have grown from intimate gatherings to ongoing dialogues with 30-40 attendees. Over the past 3.5 years,

CommUNITY Dinners have provided an ever-evolving platform for social conversation, expert talks, and even discussions addressing community challenges, such as racially motivated incidents at a local middle school. Each gathering is designed around the simple yet profound power of “breaking bread” together to foster empathy and interpersonal connection.

In an era when conversations around inclusion face increasing challenges at the highest levels, the planning committee is proud to dedicate the upcoming dinner to the observance of Juneteenth—a national holiday commemorating the abolition of slavery in the United States. This special evening will be led by Dr. Sandra Leconte from the Lake County chapter of the NAACP, whose insights promise to inspire and engage the audience on topics of freedom, history, and the enduring quest for equality.

Event Details:

• Date: Thursday, June 12th
• Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
• Location: The Art Center Highland Park, 1957 Sheridan Road, Highland Park, IL
• Format: A potluck dinner where each guest is encouraged to bring a dish that can be enjoyed with a fork or by hand, reducing waste. Please bring your own utensils and plates. Complimentary beverages, including beer and wine, will be provided.
• Reservations: Although there is no entry fee, reservations are strongly requested. Secure your spot by visiting https://shorturl.at/8VN44.

“CommUNITY Dinners are a living testament to the power of shared experiences,” says a spokesperson for the group. “By coming together around a meal, we build bridges, foster understanding, and strengthen the fabric of our community through dialogue and mutual respect.”

About The Art Center Highland Park: The Art Center Highland Park is a longstanding nonprofit institution committed to empowering the community through dynamic art education and creative dialogue. By hosting innovative events like the CommUNITY Dinners, TAC continues its mission to cultivate a welcoming and inspired community where every voice is valued.