Juneteenth celebration in Concord June 25, “Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future”
CONCORD, CA (June 8, 2023) — Concord Communities Alliance and its partners are delighted to announce the upcoming Juneteenth celebration, “Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future,” to be held on Sunday, June 25, from 1:00 to 4:00 PM at Todos Santos Plaza in Concord, CA.
Juneteenth holds significance in American history. Juneteenth, short for “June Nineteenth” commemorates the day when the last remaining slaves in the United States were informed of their freedom. Even though then President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, thereby, freeing any person of color from slavery, it was not until over 6 months passing on June 19, 1865 in Galveston Bay, Texas that the final slaves saw their emancipation.
This event celebrates communities coming together in unity, education, and cultural appreciation to celebrate the resilience, strength, and achievements of African Americans throughout history. All are welcome to this historic event.
The event features a diverse lineup of captivating speakers, poets, and musicians. They will all discuss the historical and contemporary importance of Juneteenth and their ongoing pursuit of equality and justice. Ongoing performances in music and dance will showcase showcase the rich and artistic heritage of African American culture.
Short list of guests
- DJ Davey D, a nationally recognized journalist, adjunct professor, Hip Hop historian, deejay, and syndicated talk show host, radio programmer, producer, deejay, and media and community activist.
- August Stevens, Indie soul, singer-songwriter, musician from Hercules.
- Coach Mike Wiggins, inspirational public school teacher and activist in the community.
- Ciera Flint Proctor, performing Praise Dance.
- Keven Nnaji, a 13-year-old speaker/poet from Above It All Mentoring.
- Zakiyyah GE Capehart-Bolling, poet and author of Ghana on My Mind.
- Adam Hudson, an African American djembe player, writer/journalist, commentator, musician, Pan-Africanist, and co-host of the podcast Real Sankara Hours.
- Co-MC, Melvin Lee Willis Jr., ACCE organizer going on 12 years. Facilitator of the Contra Costa Racial Justice coalition. He has held a seat on the Richmond city council since 2016.
- Co-MC, The Honorable Holly Tillman is a founding member of Clayton Speaks, Vice President of Clayton Pride, member of the MDUSD Anti-bias and Anti-Racism Committee. She won election to Clayton City Council in 2020.
Also attending, Black-owned merchants and delicious food trucks: Loretta Kitchen and Sweet Mother 101.
First Voice Media invites the community to bring pictures to honor their loved ones at their memorial altar lost due to racial violence, discrimination, systematic oppression, or other racial injustices.
For the best experience, bring a blanket or lawn chair to relax and enjoy the performances. A sun hat for the summer, comfortable shoes, and water for hydration will also help. Remember, the celebration and fun starts at 1:00pm. For more information, please email concord.communities.alliance@