STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Staten Island will join thousands of communities nationwide in marking Juneteenth, a day of observance that marks the moment in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Texas received word that they had been freed.
This day, which was designated a federal holiday in 2021, has been celebrated by African Americans for generations, as both a time of solemn remembrance and festivities.
This year, two Staten Island events are planned in honor of the holiday.
Freedom Parade and Festival
The fourth annual Juneteenth Freedom Parade and Festival, hosted by Roc-A-Natural Cultural Foundation Inc., in collaboration with community partners, will take place Saturday, June 14…