FALL RIVER, Mass. - Marylandian -- The Bristol Black Collective invites the community to join in a series of events throughout the month of June in honor of Juneteenth. Observed annually on June 19, Juneteenth commemorates the day in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, learned of their freedom—two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. This day, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, has grown into a celebration of African American culture, history, and progress. In 2021, Juneteenth was recognized as a federal holiday, a major milestone that reflects its profound importance in American history.

Through powerful storytelling, dynamic performances, cultural experiences, and educational engagement, the Bristol Black Collective's Juneteenth programming invites everyone to honor Black liberation, reflect on the ongoing fight for justice and equity, and celebrate community resilience and joy. All events are free and open to the public.

Juneteenth Brunch at Duke's Bakery
Thursday, June 19
12:00 PM
Duke's Bakery, 1082 Davol St, Fall River, MA

More on Marylandian

• As Sober.Buzz Community Explodes It's Growth Globally it is Announcing "Spreading the Good BUZZ" Podcast Hosted by Josh Case Debuting July 7th
• Coming Soon: The Cottages at Powell Park Offer a Rare Blend of Charm, Convenience, and Community in Raleigh
• CredHub and All County Property Management Franchise Corp. Partner to Empower Franchisees with Rental Payment Credit Reporting Solutions
• Pregis Shares 2024 Sustainability Report Highlighting Progress in Circular Product Innovation, Emissions Accountability, and Global Impact
• Initial Order Received from Vietnamese Maritime Security and Defense Services for Advanced Video Compression Solution: RMX; Stock Symbol: RMXI

Enjoy a delicious brunch while connecting with community through live spoken word, music, cultural tributes, and stories that inspire. Free and open to the public.

Juneteenth Celebration at Kennedy Park
Saturday, June 21
12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Kennedy Park, Fall River, MA

A vibrant day filled with live music, inspiring speakers, cultural performances, small business vendors, delicious food, and a robust Community Resources Hub. This signature event is a joyful celebration of Black excellence and collective empowerment.

Reading for Change: Community Reading and Drum Circle
Saturday, June 28
12:30 PM
Heritage State Park Visitor Center (Capt. Thomas J. Hudner Jr. Memorial Building), 100 Davol St, Fall River, MA

Join the Bristol Black Collective and the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) at  Heritage State Park for a community reading and discussion of Frederick Douglass' historic speech, "What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?" The reading offers an opportunity to explore Douglass' legacy and its relevance today.

More on Marylandian

• Keebos Launches New Universal Pearl Strap That Attaches to Any Phone Case
• Shulman Rogers Welcomes Employment Attorney J. Nicole Windsor To Baltimore Office
• Work 365 Launches Certified Provider Integration (CPI) Program to Help Distributors and CSPs Navigate Microsoft's Evolving Ecosystem
• Five Aster Awards! Fusion Marketing Group Brings Home Big Wins in 2025!
• Maryland Food Center Authority Board of Directors Appoints Katie Zenk as Executive Director

Following the reading, join us for a high-energy interactive drum circle led by Cornell Coley, an Arts and Diversity Educator, HealthRhythms-trained, and Drum Circle Facilitators Guild-certified facilitator. No experience needed; drums will be provided. All ages are welcome. Learn more at: www.afrolatin.net

These events are made possible through the generous support of our sponsors:
- Bristol County Savings Bank
- Saint Anne's Hospital
- People Incorporated
- BayCoast Bank

The Bristol Black Collective's programs are also supported in part by a grant from Mass Humanities, which receives support from the Mass Cultural Council and is an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.

About the Bristol Black Collective
The Bristol Black Collective is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Black history and culture in Bristol County and beyond. Through educational programs, cultural events, and community engagement, the Collective honors the past, celebrates the present, and empowers the future.