Taking place Wednesday June 19, 2024 from 4 to 10 p.m. at Calder Plaza in Downtown Grand Rapids is the fourth annual Justice 4 All Juneteenth Jam, a celebration that centers Black art, entertainment, culture and experiences.
The event pays homage to Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, Jubilee Day, Liberation Day and Emancipation Day. It was on June 19, 1865 that Union soldiers, led by Major General Gordon Granger, landed at Galveston, Texas with news that the Civil War had ended and that those who were enslaved were now free.
"Juneteenth 2024 is not just a day for cookouts and red velvet cake, though those things are important, too!" Julius Rogers, organizer of the Juneteenth Jam and owner of apparel company Justice 4 All, said in a statement. "It's a chance to raise our voices in celebration of freedom, but also a time for deep reflection."
Rogers was inspired to create the event in 2021 after witnessing how the events of 2020 exacerbated and partially exposed the perpetual injustices and inequities that continue to impact Black and Brown communities.
Keep reading for four reasons why this annual event is one you shouldn't miss.
1. It's an unapologetic celebration of Black culture and joy, and a way to remember the resilience of Black America. In the spirit of Juneteenth, Rogers shares how the event was born out of their mission to challenge and disrupt America's post-racial fallacy by stimulating constructive, actionable, and necessary dialog through community engagement. There are even information booths on site for those who want to learn more about the origins of Juneteenth and why it's so important that it's celebrated today.
2. Live performances abound. Whether you're looking forward to the live music by local artists and DJs or are ready to cheer on participants from all over the Midwest in the Juneteenth Breaking Battle, there's no shortage of exciting performances at the Juneteenth Jam.
3. It's a great opportunity to support Black-owned businesses. From food vendors and a graffiti art showcase to local businesses and more, the Juneteenth Jam will once again be host to a number of Black-owned businesses and artists eager to see your support! Visit your existing favorites or discover a new one—all in one place.
4. It's downright fun—and free to attend! With something for the whole family—including lots of games for kids and ways to learn more about the Juneteenth holiday—the Juneteenth Jam is an ideal day out in the city.
"The Juneteenth holiday is a chance to honor the past, celebrate the present, and fight for a more just future," Rogers continued. "Let's come together, raise a fist (or a plate of barbecue!), and recommit ourselves to building a world where freedom and equality ring true for all. See you there!"
See for yourself all the excitement and learning that can be had at the Justice 4 All Juneteenth Jam, thanks to the 2023 recap video below:
Learn more and follow Justice 4 All on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok at @iwantjustice4all.
Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for West Michigan Woman.
Photos by Tiffany Fant, Courtesy of Justice 4 All.
