30 Jun Juneteenth Recap: Honoring Black Freedom & Culture
As the oldest Black-led organization in San Francisco, we are fiercely dedicated to fostering equality, empowerment, and celebrating the rich heritage of Black and African Americans. This month, we were honored to be part of the vibrant Juneteenth festivities that took place in San Francisco. Join us as we reflect on the meaningful connections, inspiring stories, and collective celebration of freedom that made this year’s Juneteenth events truly special.
Let’s dive into some of the highlights and the impact we made together as a community!
78th Annual Fillmore Juneteenth Family Festival
What an amazing Juneteenth celebration in the historic Fillmore District! Thousands gathered as we commemorated this significant day. We had the privilege of hosting the Booker T. “Black Wellness Zone”, four wellness and education-focused booths amidst the vibrant festivities. At our booth, attendees enjoyed free rejuvenating massages with Hummingbird, sound healing sessions with Nekia Wright, Juneteenth trivia games, free new books courtesy of the SF Human Rights Commission’s Everybody Reads’ Initiative, and lots of giveaways promoting health and well-being! The Freedom Celebration spanned 8 city blocks, had over 20,000 people in attendance, and featured dozens of musical performances, special guests, community leaders, performers, vendors, exhibitions, carnival rides, games, and tons of fun for the whole family. It was a day filled with joy, unity, and a powerful celebration of freedom.
(Photo Credit: Emily Rudisill)
1st Annual Market St. Juneteenth Parade
We had the immense pleasure of taking part in the inaugural San Francisco Annual Juneteenth Market St. Parade! Joined by thousands of attendees, City Leaders, and passionate organizers, it was a truly unforgettable day celebrating our heritage with a vibrant display of culture, music, dance, and purpose. The parade featured an array of captivating elements, including 10 captivating floats, a stunning Classic Car & Corvette Caravan, live bands filling the air with melodies, and even Black Cowboys proudly riding on horseback. It was a remarkable event that left a lasting impression on all who experienced it.
(Photo credit: Sadiq Norris)
3rd Annual Juneteenth on the Waterfront
We were thrilled to kick off our Juneteenth celebrations at the 3rd annual Juneteenth on the Waterfront event. With our own booth, we joined in the festivities on Saturday, June 10. It was a day filled with delicious food, community connections, and family fun at The Port of San Francisco‘s Embarcadero Ferry Terminal Plaza and Foodwise at The Ferry Plaza Farmers Market. We had the opportunity to support 15 local Black-owned businesses, engage with Black craft makers at the In the Black pop-up market, and relax in the SF Black Wall Street lounge. Additionally, we enjoyed a free cooking demo with Chef Sarah Germany at the Foodwise Classroom and attended a talk featuring prominent Black food and wine makers, such Fernay McPhearson and Tanya Holland. It was a truly enriching experience for all involved.
(Photo Credit: Jamar Collins)
San Francisco Mayor London Breed’s 2nd Annual San Francisco JUNETEENTH Kick-Off Celebration, “The Evolution Of Our Music”
We kicked off the Juneteenth weekend at San Francisco’s City Hall for Mayor London Breed’s 2nd Annual Kick-Off Celebration “The Evolution of Our Music.” Hosted by Wealth & Disparities In the Black Community and the San Francisco Human Rights Commission, we all gathered in community and solidarity.
Foodwise Talk: Building Equity for Black Entrepreneurs, Moderated by Shakirah Simley
Our very own Executive Director, Shakirah Simey, moderated the event, Foodwise Talk: Building Equity for Black Entrepreneurs, co-hosted by SHACK15. The lineup of speakers was incredible and included: Andrea Baker, Executive Director of En2Action, Dontaye Ball, Founder of Gumbo Social, Tiffany Carter, Co-Founder of SF Black Wallstreet; Founder of Boug Cali, and Sabine Dabady, MPH, Entrepreneurship Development Manager of Mandela Partners.
We heard from innovative organizers, food entrepreneurs, and community leaders, working to uplift Black food culture and traditions, and build wealth and health in our communities.
(Photo Credit: Brie Mazurek)
As we bring the curtains down on the Juneteenth community events that took place across the Fillmore District and San Francisco, we are reminded of the power of supporting Black businesses, organizations, and initiatives that promote Black wellness. From vibrant performances to thought-provoking exhibitions, the events highlighted the rich cultural heritage and contributions of the Black community. Let us continue to amplify Black voices, uplift Black businesses, and advocate for initiatives that prioritize the wellness and empowerment of the Black community.
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