Join Us in Celebrating Juneteenth in Keene and the Monadnock Region!
Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. It marks the day when all enslaved individuals became aware of their freedom. Although the Emancipation Proclamation was signed on January 1, 1863, it took two and a half years for enslaved people in Texas to learn of their freedom.
Join us as we celebrate freedom with a variety of free family-friendly events and activities!
Event Highlights
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11TH
6:00PM | The Showroom | 20 Commercial Street, Keene
Film Screening: Paint Me a Road Out of Here
Featuring artists Faith Ringgold and Mary Enoch Elizabeth Baxter, Paint Me a Road Out of Here uncovers the whitewashed history of Ringgold’s masterpiece, “For the Women’s House,” following its 50-year journey from Rikers Island jail to the Brooklyn Museum in a poignant, funny, and true parable of a world without mass incarceration. Click here to claim your free tickets!
THURSDAY, JUNE 12TH
12:00PM | Keene Family YMCA | 200 Summit Road, Keene
The Freedom Journey Trail opens for self-guided tours
Take a walk through history to learn about important historical events that have shaped the ongoing freedom journey of Black Americans. The trail, located on the grounds of the Keene Family YMCA at 200 Summit Road, Keene, is a ¼ mile scenic walk through the fields which will be open through Sunday, June 22nd.
SATURDAY, JUNE 14TH
11:30AM | Birdies | Main Street, Keene
Kid Flicks: Celebrating Black Stories
A series of short films by the New York International Children’s Film Festival that share the joy, determination, resilience, and complexity of being Black and young. Runtime: 63 minutes. Recommended Ages: 9+. Seating is limited. Registration is opening soon!
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 19TH
5:00PM | Central Square | Downtown Keene
Juneteenth Celebration
Hosted by the City of Keene and co-hosted by W.S. Badger and the Keene Family YMCA this free, family-friendly community event will feature musical performances by Sayon and Crys Matthews.
The City of Keene’s 2024 Juneteenth events are presented by the City of Keene Human Rights Committee, Keene Family YMCA, and W.S. Badger Company.
Sponsored in part by: Savings Bank of Walpole
Come together with us to honor this important occasion and celebrate freedom!