Erie’s Juneteenth celebration is underway, and local organizers say it is a powerful and joyful time to come together and honor African American heritage.<\/p>\n
The community will have a chance to enjoy live entertainment, support local vendors, and learn about the meaning of the holiday.<\/p>\n
Juneteenth is about more than commemorating the end of slavery\u2014it’s an opportunity to educate, inspire, and bring people together through culture, music, food, and community pride.<\/p>\n
The holiday has gained greater national recognition since it was designated a federal holiday in 2021. Events taking place this week are aimed at honoring that history while continuing important conversations about its impact today.<\/p>\n
Across Erie, community members will gather to honor freedom, reflect on the past, and celebrate the contributions of African Americans throughout history.<\/p>\n
Angela McNair, one of this year’s organizers, says Juneteenth is about celebrating culture and recognizing that African American history is an essential part of American history.<\/p>\n
McNair said, “African American history and what we bring to the table, and what we’ve been through, is a part of American history. I’m excited that once again we’re stepping up and lifting our voices to make sure people know this is a part of America. We are Americans, and it’s important to celebrate what we bring to the table, which is a lot.”<\/p>\n