NE Valley Times

Scottsdale's Community Juneteenth Celebration, presented by Mayo Clinic, will take place on Saturday, June 15. The event is scheduled to run from 2 – 7 p.m. at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, located at 7380 E. Second St. The day will be filled with engaging activities, educational opportunities and family-friendly entertainment, all of which are free and open to the public.

The celebration will feature both indoor and outdoor activities suitable for all ages. Attendees can look forward to an array of culinary delights that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Juneteenth, as well as live music performances that celebrate freedom and resilience. There will also be games, crafts, and activities for families to enjoy together.

Educational speakers will be present to share insights about the historical significance and ongoing impact of Juneteenth. Additionally, community organizations will provide health and wellness resources.

"We are proud to bring the community together to celebrate Juneteenth, a pivotal moment in our nation’s history," said Scottsdale Diversity Director Jackie Johnson. "This year’s theme, ‘A Culture of Resiliency,’ reflects the strength and enduring spirit of our community. We invite everyone to join us in this celebration of freedom, unity and equality.”

The event has been made possible through the generous support of several community sponsors including Mayo Clinic as the Presenting Freedom Sponsor; HonorHealth as Equality Sponsor; WillScot Mobile Mini as Justice Sponsor; AARP, AXON, Fry’s Food Stores, SRP as Independence Sponsors; Community Celebrating Diversity, Scottsdale Community College, Girl Scouts – Arizona Cactus Pine, Scottsdale Fire Fighters Association as Unity Sponsors; AVNET and Renewal by Andersen as Ally Sponsors.

Juneteenth is celebrated on June 19 each year to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. It marks the day in 1865 when the last enslaved people in Texas were informed of their freedom, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed.