By Makayla Rosales, Coordinator, Opportunity & Impact
Juneteenth, observed on Thursday, June 19, commemorates the day in 1865 when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the end of slavery—more than two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation had declared enslaved African Americans in Confederate states to be free. It was not until the 13th Amendment was ratified in December 1865 that slavery was formally abolished across the entire United States.
Juneteenth is more than a historical milestone; it is a powerful symbol of delayed justice, Black resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of equity. After more than 150 years of community celebration, Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021, inviting all Americans to reflect on our past and recommit to building a more just future.
Engage in the workplace
Observing Juneteenth in the workplace is an important way to honor Black history. It provides employees with a chance to reflect, learn, and engage in meaningful dialogue about the history of slavery and the ongoing fight for justice.
One meaningful way to honor Juneteenth in the workplace is by organizing educational events that explore the historical significance of the holiday and its ongoing relevance. Invite historians, community leaders, or activists to speak about the history of slavery, emancipation, and the continued struggle for racial justice. These sessions can foster greater understanding, encourage open dialogue, and promote a more welcoming workplace culture.
Another impactful way to honor Juneteenth is by facilitating employee involvement in volunteer opportunities or community service projects that advance racial equity, education, or civil rights. This might include collaborating with local nonprofits, schools, or advocacy organizations on initiatives such as mentorship programs, community improvement efforts, or voter education and registration events. Seek out local organizations with whom you have an existing connection or take time to research reputable groups whose mission and work align with your values and could be strong partners for meaningful collaboration.
Attend an event
If you are interested in bringing your team, friends, or family to events honoring Juneteenth, here are some local recommendations:
Best Southwest Juneteenth Festival– 6-10 p.m., Saturday, June 14
Grimes Park, 501 E. Wintergreen Road, DeSoto, TX, 75115
Join for a free night filled with music, food, and community. Bring your friends and family for a fun evening to enjoy live performances, stroll through vendors and local crafts, and have fun in the kids’ zone.
Fair Park Juneteenth Festival of Service– 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Monday, June 15
Fair Park Automobile Building and Amphitheater, 1010 First Ave., Dallas, TX, 75210
Participants will spend a full day doing community service and volunteering in honor of Juneteenth. Participants can help clean up the streets, paint murals, and plant landscapes with their fellow neighbors. There will also be DJs spinning sets and food trucks.
Opal’s Walk for Freedom– 9 a.m., Thursday, June 19
Farrington Field, 1501 North University Drive, Fort Worth, TX 76107
Join Dr. Opal Lee on her annual 2.5 mile walk to recognize the 2.5 years it took for the news and enforcement of freedom to reach the enslaved people in Texas.
AMPLIFY Juneteenth-11 a.m.-2 p.m., Thursday, June 19
The DEC Network at The Shops at RedBird, 3560 W. Camp Wisdom Rd Suite 200, Dallas, TX 75237
Join The DEC Network in celebrating entrepreneurs in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex at their special event on Juneteenth. This gathering will spotlight the accomplishments of established business owners and up-and-coming entrepreneurs seeking capital.
Juneteenth Fashion Show– 6-10 p.m., Thursday, June 19
Lexus Box Garden at Legacy Hall, 7800 Windrose Ave., Plano, TX, 75024
In honor of 160 years of Juneteenth, the fourth annual Juneteenth Fashion Show will be hosted outdoors at Legacy West. Fashion from Black American creators will be shown on a runway, paying tribute to the contributions of their community. After the fashion show, a dance party will follow. Come dressed in all white to honor the past, present, and future. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.
Juneteenth 2025 Free Admission Day- 10-5 p.m., Thursday, June 19
Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum, 300 N. Houston St., Dallas, TX 75202
In honor of Juneteenth, join for free admission and programming throughout the day to acknowledge and learn about the importance of Juneteenth. Training for business’ is also available upon request.
The Power of Proximity Summit– 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Friday, June 20
UNT Dallas, 7300 University Hills Blvd, Dallas, TX 75241
Through panels, breakout sessions, storytelling, and collective strategy, UNT will explore how proximity to people, data, and lived experience fuels liberation.
Other June holidays to celebrate
Pride Month, celebrated throughout June, honors the resilience, contributions, and ongoing fight for equality of the LGBTQ+ community. It commemorates the 1969 Stonewall Uprising, a pivotal moment in the LGBTQ+ rights movement, and serves as a reminder of the importance of visibility and advocacy in all areas of society, including the workplace.
Caribbean American Heritage Month recognizes the rich history, culture, and achievements of Caribbean Americans and their impact on the United States. It offers a chance to celebrate cultural traditions, spotlight influential figures of Caribbean descent, and promote greater understanding of the community’s contributions to areas such as politics, the arts, science, and education.
Father’s Day, observed on Sunday, June 15, is a time to celebrate fathers and father figures for their role in families and society. This is a day to express appreciation, strengthen family bonds, and acknowledge the contributions of caregivers of all kinds.