The anguish and the hope of the past weeks have been weighing on us. For some, this moment has been a wake up call. For others, it is the continuation of a nightmare world of anti-Blackness. For some, calls for abolition are new, but for others of us it is what we have been demanding all along.

June 19, 1865 marks the day that enslaved people in Texas learned that the institution of slavery had been overturned as a result of the US Civil War. Immediately, they rushed to find their family members, create works of art, build businesses, and community structures. They celebrated freedom by calling on their ancestorsʻ strength and even then, in 1865, imagined a world where Black lives would matter.

We invite you to join us for a sunset ceremony celebrating Juneteenth by gathering at Mākālei Park near Lēʻahi (3111 Diamond Head Road) to create a community altar to honor our ancestors, our continuing quest for liberation, and the building we are doing for a future where we are all truly free.

This is a Black-centered gathering, but our ʻohana and kaiāulu, our larger community, are welcomed to come in support. Bring flowers, offerings, images to contribute to our community altar. Please wear white, wear a mask, and be mindful of social distance.

We will gather at 6:30pm through the sunset. Parking is at Kapiʻolani Park and Mākālei is a short distance away. To arrange accessibility support and accommodations please email us at info@thepopoloproject.org.