Juneteeth 2018

”Juneteenth” celebrates June 19, 1865—the day when enslaved people in Texas received word that US Civil War had ended and they were free. It was the first time in almost 250 years that there was no legal slavery in North America. We're observing Juneteenth in Hawai‘i to honor the hope our ancestors experienced in that moment as they reconnected to their kin and dreamed of generations to come. We carry their memories forward knowing we are not yet totally free, but also knowing that, through the practice of embodying freedom in our joy in being together, sharing our cultures, and envisioning a better world, we bring it forth. 

Saturday, June 16

We'll be celebrating all afternoon and into the evening with two great events.

Kap‘iolani Park

Join us on Saturday, June 16 at Kapi‘olani Park for an afternoon of music and cultural arts from across the African diaspora. Bring your ‘ohana, your grill, and a dish to potluck, bring your acoustic instruments and your voices! Let's get together and get free! Free and open to all.

We'll be at Picnic Area 7, just across from Kaimana Beach, from 1 to 5pm. Featuring the drumming and dancing of Sewa Faré, opening libations offered by Iya Vanessa Irvin , a community quilt bound together by our stories, capoeira, face painting for keiki and adults, games, crafts, art-making, and more.

Made possible in part by the generous support of the Hawai‘i People's Fund.

Honolulu Museum of Art

The Honolulu African American Film Festival will screen Jewel's Catch One in celebration of Juneteenth at 7:30 pm in the Doris Duke Theatre. 

Jewel’s Catch One’s documents the oldest Black owned disco in America and establishes the legacy of businesswoman, activist, and healer, Jewel Thais-Williams, who stood up against hate and discrimination for 42 years. The story of Jewel and “The Catch” celebrates four decades of music, fashion, celebrity, and activism that helped change the course of our country by breaking down racial, social, and cultural barriers. One of the original safe spaces for both the LGBT and Black communities, The Catch also served as a refuge for many during the AIDS crisis.

Jewel Thais-Williams will join us for this special showing and after the film will engage in Q&A with the audience. 

Purchase tickets here.