2024 Juneteenth: Honor, Reflect, and Celebrate! program
June 18, 5 p.m.–8 p.m.
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The Oklahoma Historical Society will celebrate Juneteenth with a free program on Tuesday, June 18, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Oklahoma History Center.
Juneteenth is the celebration of emancipation following the U.S. Civil War. U.S. Army General Gordon Granger proclaimed the end of slavery in Texas at Galveston on June 19, 1865. This news and celebration spread to the enslaved people of Indian Territory throughout that summer. The event, titled “2024 Juneteenth: Honor, Reflect, and Celebrate!” will educate the public about the history of Juneteenth with a book signing, live performances, discussions, and more.
Laura Johnson will serve as the emcee. Johnson is Ms. Black Oklahoma USA 2024. She grew up in Chickasha and attended Langston University. Johnson also served in the Oklahoma National Guard as a Signal Support Systems Specialist before being honorably discharged due to an injury. Johnson currently works as a high school cheer coach.
Megan Crawford will sing “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” the Black national anthem. Some Oklahoma fifth graders will be part of a panel discussion. Jimmie White will honor the past and discuss the history of Juneteenth. Musician Felix Linden will perform songs that reflect on the progress made. Belle Sanon will perform a poem that builds on the promise of freedom for all.
Author Archietta Burch James will sign copies of her book Francis Clinton: A Buffalo Soldier and American Hero. Francis Clinton is James’ great-grandfather, one of the original Buffalo Soldiers.
No registration is required. Light refreshments will be served at the event.
This event is sponsored by OHS and Medina Exploration, and supported by the Black Heritage Committee.
