On the electric night of December 31st, 1862, known as “Freedom’s Eve”, both enslaved and free African Americans communed in homes and churches, anxiously waiting on the news of President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. At the stroke of midnight on January 1st, 1863, all enslaved people in the Confederate States had become legally free overnight. As a result of Confederate control in many states though, freedom was not fully granted until June 19th, 1865 when thousands of Union troops, led by Army Major General Gordon Granger rode into Galveston, TX, and told enslaved people of their emancipation.

*Juneteenth celebration in 1900 at Eastwoods Park. Credit: Austin History Center.*

“Juneteenth commemorates African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement. 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 planning the future. Its growing popularity signifies a level of maturity and dignity in America long overdue.” As an advocate for sustainability through community and a black-owned and led business, it’s important to Zoom Out that we stay keyed into the local celebrations and happenings around Oregon for this year’s Juneteenth.

Regardless of how you choose to celebrate this important day, it’s essential to recognize its significance both in the history and future of America. “Juneteenth marks our country’s second independence day. Although it has long been celebrated in the African American community, this monumental event remains largely unknown to most Americans.” Despite having a decades-long legacy, it was only this past February 2021 when US Senate and House representatives flew to DC to advocate for Juneteenth to become a national holiday, proving just how much more work there is to be done in the legal recognition of this holiday. Whether you’re attending a parade or picnic, donating your time or money, or just celebrating through reflection and education, we at ZOM wish you a joyful Juneteenth.

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Our picks for local Oregon Juneteenth celebrations:

Juneteenth Oregon, produced by PDX Jazz, will be live-streamed from Portland jazz club, Jack London Revue. Featuring an array of local musicians, this event also features special appearances by Gov Kate Brown, U.S. Senator Jeff Merkely, and others. You can watch the event live on both juneteenthor.com and pdxjazz.com. Click here for more information.

Medford’s Juneteenth Celebration at Pear Blossom Park kicks off around 11 AM. The festival will feature live bands, DJs, and black-owned business vendors. Enrich the community, educate, support Black Businesses and celebrate freedom at this event, sponsored by BASE & B.E.S.T. More info on attending the events and participation offerings for black-owned businesses here.

If the festivals in Portland, Eugene, Sisters, Medford, and Salem aren’t your speed and you’re seeking a more intimate celebration, we suggest the Juneteenth Community Chef Dinner Series at Zenger Farm. This first event in their Community Chef Dinner Series offers a vegan dinner package prepared by Chef Rachelle Dixon. Each registration serves a vegan meal for two along with goods from local small businesses and even a hand-thrown ceramic bowl from Reed College art students. Registration is open now so act quickly to reserve your spot here to celebrate Juneteenth while supporting Oregon farmers, chefs, makers, and artists.