Upper Valley communities plan Juneteenth celebrations

Emmanuel Ajavon, of Grantham, right, his daughter Emilia, 8, second from left, Conicia Jackson, of Bethel, second from right, and her daughter Addison Ramsey, 12, left, joined the Juneteenth celebration with Ajavon's dogs Willow, left, and Luke, right, in White River Junction, Vt., Saturday, June 19, 2021. More than 100 people turned out for the event. (Valley News - James M. Patterson) Copyright Valley News. May not be reprinted or used online without permission. Send requests to permission@vnews.com. James M. Patterson

Staff report

Published: 06-17-2024 7:03 PM

Modified: 06-18-2024 1:29 PM

BETHEL — Numerous communities will be holding celebrations this week in honor of Juneteenth, a holiday that commemorate the emancipation of people who were enslaved in the United States.

Here is a list of Juneteenth events taking place throughout the Upper Valley:

Bethel Juneteenth Celebration: Wednesday, June 19, 5 to 8 p.m., Bethel Bandshell, 129 Church St. Dr. Shirley Jefferson, of Vermont Law and Graduate School, and Rev. Dr. Leon Dunkley, of the North Universalist Chapel Society in Woodstock, will give talks. Also includes live music from Lakou Mizik, a bounce house, carnival games and a free barbecue. Hosted by the Bethel Equity and Inclusion Committee. More information: Facebook: “Bethel Juneteenth Celebration.”

Juneteenth Movie Night and Social in Windsor: Wednesday, June 19, 6 to 8 p.m. Windsor Welcome Center, 3 Railroad Ave. Watch the documentary “Juneteenth 1865-2022: The Pursuit of Economic Equality.” Followed by conversation and snacks. Hosted by Windsor’s Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Committee. More information: 802-674-6786.

Hartford-Lebanon Juneteenth Celebration in White River Junction: Saturday, June 22, 2 to 4 p.m., Lyman Point Park, 167 Maple St. The family-friendly event, commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States, features music, culture and community spirit. Co-hosted by Hartford and Lebanon. Rain date: Sunday, June 23. More information: vtpoc.net/event/hartford-vt-lebanon-nh-juneteenth-celebration.