ORLANDO, Fla. — Monday marks 158 years since the last enslaved people in the United States learned they were free. To commemorate Juneteenth, Orlando is home to several events in celebration and recognition.
What You Need To Know
- On June 19, 1865 the last enslaved people in the U.S. learned of their freedom, which came two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation
- In 2021, President Joe Biden declared the date a federal holiday
- Heavy rains canceled some weekend Juneteenth events in Orlando, though more are scheduled for Monday's holiday
On June 19, 1865, the last enslaved people in the U.S. learned of their freedom, which came two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation.
People from all over celebrated the day, however, heavy rains on Saturday canceled the City of Orlando's Juneteenth event midway through. Some did not let the rain damper their own celebrations.
On Sunday, the organization Black Theater Girl Magic held its 2nd Annual Lunch and Learn. The event brought families together over a barbecue, as children read Juneteenth-related books.
"This is the time we get to set what Juneteenth looks like as a holiday. Fourth of July is sparklers and barbecue, and we get to decide what Juneteenth is going to be. And so this is my vision of what Juneteenth should be," said Mandi Jo John, executive eirector of Black Theater Girl Magic.
Juneteenth has been celebrated for over 150 years with origins in Texas. However, a Gallup poll showed 28% of Americans reported knowing nothing at all about Juneteenth in 2021.
"I think it’s important that we not only celebrate in remembrance but just celebrate the fact this is the first moment in American history where every soul in the United States was a free person. That is something that I think everyone can get behind and celebrate," John said.
Since President Joe Biden made Juneteenth a federal holiday in 2021, Gallup shows public understanding of the event has been increasing.
On Monday, June 19, Black Theater Girl Magic will host a theater performance beginning at 7 p.m. at the Renaissance Theatre. There will be musical performances, spoken word and visual art.
There is also an art installation at the Orange County Administrative building opening at 5:30 p.m. on Monday. The event is free to the public and features the work of The Highwaymen, a group of black artists who broke social barriers through painting Florida landscapes.