Juneteenth (short for “June Nineteenth”) marks the day when federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas in 1865 to take control of the state and ensure that all enslaved people be free. Juneteenth honors the end to slavery in the United States and is considered the longest-running African American holiday. On June 17, 2021, it officially became a federal holiday, and Mayor Breed followed with an order declaring it an official holiday in San Francisco. As the importance of this historic event grows nationwide, San Francisco continues to show its a City dedicated to fostering the strength, resilience, and rich cultural heritage of its Black residents and sustaining the vitality of its Black community.

Preserving History
Recognizing, preserving and sharing the deep-rooted history of its Black residents is important to San Fransico. The City is home to various cultural institutions, such as the Museum of the African Diaspora, which showcase the contributions and struggles of Black people throughout history. These institutions provide platforms for education, dialogue, and celebration, ensuring that the stories of resilience and achievement are not forgotten.

Community Empowerment
San Francisco actively promotes community empowerment initiatives that uplift and support its Black residents. Organizations like the African American Arts and Culture Complex offer a wide range of programs, including art exhibitions, performances, and educational workshops, fostering creativity and self-expression within the community. The City's commitment to affordable housing and access to quality education and healthcare further strengthens the foundation for a thriving Black community.

Business and Economic Development
San Francisco recognizes the importance of supporting Black-owned businesses and promoting economic opportunities within the community. The City actively fosters an environment that encourages entrepreneurship and provides resources for small business owners. Initiatives like the Fillmore Heritage Center and the Bayview Merchants Association play crucial roles in promoting economic development, job creation, and sustainable growth within the Black community.

Juneteenth Celebrations
By transforming Juneteenth into a momentous occasion, marked by vibrant celebrations and commemorative events, the City's Juneteenth Parade and Festival brings people together, featuring lively music, dance performances, local vendors, and engaging activities for all ages. These celebrations serve as a testament to the City's dedication to preserving African American culture and promoting unity among its diverse residents.

San Francisco's commitment to honoring Juneteenth and supporting its Black residents showcases a City that embraces diversity, inclusivity, and the preservation of cultural heritage. Through the preservation of history, community empowerment, vibrant celebrations, and economic development initiatives, San Francisco is paving the way for the continued strength and resilience of its Black community. As we celebrate Juneteenth, let us take inspiration from the City's example and work towards fostering unity, understanding, and equality in our own communities and throughout our City. 

From culture, music, and food, enjoy a series of citywide events honoring Black culture and history this Juneteenth.