Juneteenth

Though Juneteenth (a portmanteau of June and nineteenth) is on Saturday, June 19, this year, the City Bar will be closed on Friday, June 18, to recognize this meaningful day.

Juneteenth commemorates the date in 1865 when Union General Gordon Granger read federal orders that all previously enslaved people in Texas were free. Notably, this occurred over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed on January 1, 1863.

Juneteenth is celebrated not only as an acknowledgment of our country’s history, but as a reminder of resiliency in the face of injustice. This year, with heightened attention around the series of violence against communities of color, we hold space for reflection on our history while working toward a more fair and equitable society for all. It’s a great time to reflect and consider the role we can continue to have in helping with the struggle for equality, both individually and collectively.

We encourage you to learn more about Juneteenth here and here. 

A variety of events taking place in New York this weekend may be of interest and can be found here. 

Please celebrate in whatever way speaks to you!