Business Strategy: Juneteenth celebrations important to OKC’s culture

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Juneteenth, also known as Juneteenth Independence Day or Freedom Day, is an American holiday that commemorates the June 19, 1865, announcement of the abolition of slavery in the U.S. state of Texas, the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, and the creation of the 13th Amendment.

It’s an important observation for Oklahoma City. Juneteenth celebrates the contributions of Black Americans in our city and country. We often say that economic development isn’t simply about investing in real estate; it is about investing in people—their livelihoods, economic prosperity, neighborhoods, access to services, and quality of life. Celebrating our friends’ and neighbors’ history, tradition and contributions is important to uniting and strengthening OKC.

The community is invited and encouraged to attend a host of Juneteenth events across the city.

The 27th annual Juneteenth Music & Arts Festival will be held on Friday, June 14, from 6 to 9 p.m. and Saturday, June 15, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Booker T. Washington Park. This family-friendly event is free and open to the public. The event will feature artwork and live music from local and national talent, games and contests, food trucks and vendors.

Juneteenth on the East will bring together artists from many different art forms for two days of family-friendly activities. Now in its fourth year, Juneteenth on the East will feature live music, a live mural painting, dance performances, food trucks, vendors, children’s activities and a car show. The festival will take place on Saturday, June 15, from 3 to 9 p.m. on NE 23rd between Hood and Kelham. Other family-friendly activities include an ice cream social, featuring a limited edition Juneteenth flavor at Boom Town Creamery on Wednesday, June 12, at 6 p.m. and a 5K walk/run hosted by Red Coyote on Friday, June 14 at 7 p.m. Register for the walk/run at redcoyoterunning.com/juneteenthontheeast.

Finally, the Oklahoma Historical Society will celebrate Juneteenth with a free program at the Oklahoma History Center on Tuesday, June 18, from 5 to 8 p.m. The event, titled “2024 Juneteenth: Honor, Reflect and Celebrate!,” will educate the public about the history of Juneteenth with a book signing, live performances, discussions and more. Light refreshments will be served. The event ​​is sponsored by the Oklahoma Historical Society and Medina Exploration, with support from the Black Heritage Committee.

I encourage you to participate in community activities that preserve our city’s culture, history, talent and traditions. After all, our diverse cultural fabric and strong sense of community make Oklahoma City unique.

Kenton Tsoodle is the president of The Alliance for Economic Development of Oklahoma City.