The Bethlehem Center invites the Chattanooga community to join them in celebrating the Southside Juneteenth Jubilee, their annual celebration of freedom, on June 14 from 1-4 p.m. at their 200 W. 28th St. location in Chattanooga.
The event will feature local vendor booths, live music and food. Local elected officials will be in attendance. Guest speakers include Councilwoman Raquetta Dotley, Mayor Wamp, District 11 Commissioner Joe Graham and Mayor Kelly.
Officials said, "Juneteenth is the oldest known commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States.
On June 19, 1865, General Gordon Granger announced that slaves in Texas were free by order of the president of the United States. This historic announcement came two and a half years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation, which had become official on Jan. 1, 1863.
“We are honored to host the Southside Juneteenth Jubilee and to celebrate this significant day in our nation's history with the Chattanooga community," said Reginald Smith II, executive director of The Bethlehem Center. "This event is an opportunity for the community to come together and remember the significance of
this holiday.
"Although Juneteenth has been celebrated across the United States since 1865, its observance has become more widespread since the Civil Rights Movement, serving as a platform for promoting diversity and educating about the sacrifices and challenges endured by enslaved Americans in their struggle for freedom.
"The Bethlehem Center warmly welcomes everyone in Chattanooga to join us for this meaningful celebration. Whether you're interested in partnering, volunteering or becoming a vendor at the Southside Juneteenth Jubilee, please visit thebeth.org/juneteenth."