Madison Reporter

Madison College and its partners will celebrate Juneteenth Day 2024 with events focused on unity and cultural enrichment.

In collaboration with Humility Inc., Madison College announces Baraboo's first-ever Juneteenth Day on Wednesday, June 19, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Ochsner Park. The celebration is free and open to the public.

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, commemorates the announcement of the abolition of slavery in the United States, proclaimed on June 19, 1865, in Galveston, Texas. It has since become a day to celebrate African American culture, heritage, and the ongoing fight for equality.

The Baraboo event will feature live music, poetry readings, food vendors, games, interactive education sessions, and community activities. The event aims to unite the community while honoring African American heritage and celebrating progress toward freedom and equality.

Musical performances will include local artists and bands that highlight African American culture. Scheduled speakers are Percy Brown, Head of DEI for Deforest Area School and CEO of North Star Consulting Services; Dr. Damira Grady, Vice-President of Madison College Culture and Climate; and City of Baraboo Mayor Rob Nelson. Poetry readings by Arsenio Sorrell and Charles Payne will focus on themes of freedom, resilience, and unity. Traditional African American dishes will be available from local vendors alongside educational activities that explore the significance of Juneteenth.

For more details about the Baraboo event, visit Humility Incorporated's Facebook page.

In Madison, the 35th annual Juneteenth Celebration: Black Resilience, Cohesion & Reclamation is scheduled for Saturday, June 15. Hosted by the Kujichagulia Center of Madison for Self-Determination with support from Madison College and other local sponsors, this event aims to honor the African American experience.

The parade begins at 11 a.m. at Fountain of Life Church in Madison before proceeding to Penn Park for further celebrations. Activities include a Break The Chains Basketball Tournament.

For additional information about events in Madison, visit the Kujichagulia Center website.