Juneteenth will be celebrated in Reading during four days of events starting on June 17.
Juneteenth is a holiday that recognizes the end of slavery. While the Emancipation Proclamation was signed on Jan. 1, 1863, it wasn’t until June 19, 1865, that the last remaining enslaved people in Galveston Bay, Texas, learned of their freedom.
In Reading, the holiday will be marked with a series of events.
A flag-raising ceremony will be held on the steps of City Hall at 1 p.m. on June 17.
On June 18, a ceremony will be held at St. John Missionary Baptist Church, 436 S. Seventh St., starting at 7 p.m. The event will feature an announcement about why the holiday is celebrated, a musical program and recognition of local unsung heroes.
A community family barbecue will be held June 19 at Berks Lodge #47 from noon until 6 p.m. and will include free food, games and entertainment.
The Juneteenth celebration will conclude with a church service June 20 at Holy Trinity Church of God, 130 W. Buttonwood St., starting at 10:15 a.m. The service will be followed by a walk through the community calling for action against increasing violence.
Source: Berkshire mont
Be First to Comment