Juneteenth, short for "June Nineteenth" is a significant day in American history. It marks the date in 1865 when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, and informed the enslaved African Americans of their freedom and the end of the Civil War. This occurred more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863. Juneteenth symbolizes the end of slavery in the United States and is celebrated as a day of freedom and emancipation for African Americans.

 

Why Celebrate Juneteenth?

1. Celebrating Juneteenth serves several purposes:

2. Commemoration of Freedom: It honors the liberation of the last remaining enslaved African Americans in the Confederacy.

3. Recognition of African American Culture and Contributions: It acknowledges the rich cultural heritage and significant contributions of African Americans to the nation’s history and culture.

4. Education and Reflection: It provides an opportunity to educate people about the history of slavery and the ongoing struggle for civil rights and equality.

5. Community and Solidarity: It fosters community, unity, and collective strength among African Americans and allies.

 

Juneteenth Celebrations in the San Francisco Bay Area

 

The San Francisco Bay Area celebrates Juneteenth throughout the month with various events, including educational panels, entrepreneurship discussions, and concerts. These events aim to educate and celebrate the African American community, emphasizing resilience, perseverance, and success.

 

Highlighted Events by the San Francisco African American Chamber of Commerce (SFAACC)

 

The SFAACC emphasizes "Success through Entrepreneurship" as this year's Juneteenth celebration theme. They recognize six outstanding entrepreneurs making significant impacts in their fields and communities. Here are the highlighted awardees:

 

Vegan Mob: A popular eatery known for its innovative vegan dishes that blend Southern comfort food with plant-based cuisine.

 

What’s the Scoop Ice Cream: An ice cream business celebrated for its unique flavors and community engagement.

 

She Got Goals: A venture dedicated to empowering women and fostering goal-setting and achievement.

​

Project Level: An organization providing artistic and creative opportunities for young people.

 

Mansfield & Mansfield: A family-owned business contributing to local economic

development and community support.

 

These awardees exemplify hard work, innovation, and community impact, showcasing the spirit of Juneteenth and the theme of resilience and entrepreneurship.

 

The SFAACC believes in the power of community and aims to bring people together to celebrate these achievements and the broader significance of Juneteenth. This month-long celebration is a time to reflect, educate, and uplift, honoring both the history and future of the African American community in San Francisco and beyond.

 

Brigette LeBlanc, MTA

Vice Chair of The Board of Directors

San Francisco African American Chamber of Commerce