Chicago was alive with Juneteenth celebrations on Thursday, showcasing the city’s vibrant culture and deep-rooted history.
From the West Side to the South Side and along the lakefront, communities gathered to honor the significance of the holiday, creating a spirited atmosphere filled with love and hope.
At the DuSable Museum, attendees experienced an electrifying celebration, marking the strength of the Black community and the journey toward freedom.
“It’s that love, that Black love, that power. It makes you feel that good,” attendee Shenita Batie expressed, capturing the essence of the crowd’s energy.
Celebrations at the museum featured a plethora of activities, including exhibits, delicious food, and live music that got everyone on their feet.
“It’s very important that we know our history and we pass it on,” remarked participant Christine Perry, emphasizing the educational aspect of Juneteenth.
This holiday serves as a powerful reminder of the past and the ongoing journey towards empowerment and recognition of Black heroes.
“What it means to me, it’s a day where we respect all Black heroes and what they do for us,” stated Nehemiah Black, reflecting on the day’s importance.
Throughout the city, Juneteenth festivities attracted crowds eager to celebrate and remember.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson noted, “Happy Juneteenth! Today is a day we know our ancestors are smiling upon us because we’re not just descendants of slaves; we are free people who were enslaved who fought and earned our liberation.”
In North Lawndale, community members participated in a spirited Freedom Parade, with locals marching in solidarity.
“We’re finally getting recognized, and that people come out and support together,” commented community member Lateshia Jackson, highlighting the community’s unity.
Reverend Martin Hunter of Grace Memorial Baptist Church celebrated the occasion with his congregation and the wider community, sharing an emotional connection with the holiday.
“If I had a zipper and you could open up and see my heart, you’d see ’em tap dancing,” Rev. Hunter said, as he expressed joy on this meaningful day.
Notably, Grace Manor Apartments, a new affordable housing initiative on the West Side, celebrated its milestone on Juneteenth.
Dinitia Robinson, CEO and president of the North Lawndale Chamber of Commerce, stated, “Today is just the beginning. We don’t need to just unite for a parade. This is for economic development and the change for us to unite in our community.”
Meanwhile, in the southwest suburbs, Plano marked a historic moment as the first place in Illinois to officially recognize Juneteenth.
Despite facing potential cancellation due to negative feedback earlier this year, the celebration was successfully relocated to Yorkville.
Further in the city, the Pullman Porter Museum hosted its 12th annual Juneteenth Recommitment and Economic Development Celebration, which included a parade along 103rd Street celebrating heritage and freedom.
Another meaningful event occurred on Chicago’s lakefront, where the Justice Journey Alliance-Leadership Foundation led a symbolic 2.5-mile walk.
The distance represented the time it took for the last enslaved people in Texas to learn of their freedom.
Todd Belcore, Social Change executive director, poignantly expressed, “It’s not just about celebrating the gains that happened or making sure we’re honoring our ancestors’ sacrifice… but what are we going to do now to continue that legacy?”
The day concluded with a cornerstone celebration at the site of Grace Manor Apartments, emphasizing the significance of affordable housing initiatives in the community.
In another highlight, the Field Museum hosted a fashion show featuring local designers’ original pieces inspired by the museum’s Africa Fashion exhibit.
The event was included in basic admission and attracted many fashion enthusiasts from the city.
Finally, atop the former John Hancock building, Chicago welcomed its community for the 3rd annual Juneteenth Celebration, which spotlighted local Black-owned businesses alongside enticing food and live music.
Everyone ABC7 spoke to on the day echoed sentiments of positivity and a profound sense of community, showcasing the unifying spirit of Juneteenth.
image source from：abc7chicago
