“Juneteenth is a holiday celebrating the emancipation of those who had been enslaved in the United States. Originating in Galveston, Texas, it is now celebrated annually on June 19 throughout the United States, with varying official recognition. It is commemorated on the anniversary date of the June 19, 1865 announcement of General Order No. 3 by Union Army General Gordon Granger, proclaiming freedom from slavery in Texas.” (source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Juneteenth).
In Chestertown, a Juneteenth block party with music by Dell Foxx is planned from 6-9 pm on June 18 in Fountain Park, followed by a full day of family fun, educational activities, arts and crafts, food vendors, and more music (featuring Karen Somerville) in Wilmer Park, noon to 8 pm on Saturday 6/19. Additional activities are planned there for Sunday, June 20, 11 am to 3 pm. The events are organized by the Black Union of Kent County and sponsored by the Town of Chestertown, the Bayside HOYAS, Chesapeake Heartland, Hedgelawn Foundation, and the Kent Cultural Alliance.
