Facilities
Parks & Trails
Activities
Events
Connect

Events > Celebrate Juneteenth With Us!

Celebrate Juneteenth With Us!

THPRD Events
Date: 06/19/25
Time: All Day
Location: All Facilities
Event Address: 15707 SW Walker Rd
Contact Phone:
Cost:
Bus Route(s):

Juneteenth – A Day of Remembrance and Liberation

Juneteenth, officially known as Juneteenth National Independence Day, is a federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of four million enslaved African Americans. On June 19, 1865—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation—Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, to inform the last remaining enslaved people that they were free. Though the 13th Amendment, which formally abolished slavery nationwide, would not be ratified until December of that year, June 19 became a powerful symbol of freedom, resistance, and delayed justice.

For generations, Black families and communities have gathered on Juneteenth to reflect, remember, and celebrate survival and liberation. It is a day rooted in both deep pain and profound joy—a time to honor ancestors, cultural resilience, and the ongoing struggle for justice.

Juneteenth also holds special significance in Oregon. While Black pioneers here traditionally marked Grand Emancipation Day on January 1 since 1863, Juneteenth was brought to the state in 1945 by Clara Peoples, a Kaiser shipyard worker in Portland. Clara introduced the celebration to her co-workers, planting the seeds of what would grow into a lasting tradition in Oregon. Her leadership helped shape a local legacy that continues to inspire recognition and celebration across the state.

The designation of Juneteenth as a federal holiday in 2021 brought long-overdue national recognition to this defining moment in American history. At THPRD, we observe Juneteenth as an opportunity to celebrate Black heritage, excellence, and joy—while also committing to the work of dismantling systemic racism in our society and institutions.

On Juneteenth, we honor Black resistance, Black creativity, and Black futures. We recommit to creating welcoming spaces where equity, justice, and inclusion are not just values, but actions.

Honor and celebrate Juneteenth by:

  • Learning more about Juneteenth.
  • Attending local or statewide Juneteenth celebrations.
  • Supporting Black-owned businesses and organizations.
  • Looking up different people and organizations that work against any form of oppression in the world.
  • Sharing your findings, thoughts, and experiences with family & friends!

Let’s remember that while highlighting a day or a month is very significant, this sentiment of honor and recognition should be present all year long!

EVENTS

THPRD

Join W.E.S.T. Side Connect and THPRD to this FREE documentary screening honoring Juneteenth!
Happening at the Cedar Hills Recreation Center (11650 SW Park Way, Portland) on Monday, June 9. Doors open at 6:15 and the screening starts at 6:30. Light refreshments will be offered.
More details here or call 503-629-6340

MORE EVENTS

 Washington County Juneteenth Celebration – Hillsboro ~ June 14
“From Roots to Wings”

Juneteenth Oregon Parade & Festival – Portland ~ June 21

Power of Place: Juneteenth Event ~ Portland Art Museum ~ June 19

Suggested resources:

 

Upcoming Events

View All Upcoming Events