Juneteenth Celebrated at Legacy Drama House

Juneteenth Celebrated at Legacy Drama House

Juneteenth is a popular cultural holiday that falls on June 19th. This date signifies when the last known enslaved people residing in America (Texas) were notified that the Emancipation Proclamation which officially ended slavery had been signed two and half years prior by then President Abraham Lincoln. As a result, the newly freed people begin celebrating on this date.
It was original known as “Jubilee Day” and through the years become more popularly known as Juneteenth. In 1979, Texas made the day a statewide holiday. Today over forty-seven states recognize Juneteenth as a state holiday. Most recently, Governor Andrew Cuomo signed an executive order declaring that New York State also recognize this sacred celebration. Efforts to make it a national holiday have repeatedly stalled in Congress.
It was original known as “Jubilee Day” and through the years become more popularly known as Juneteenth. In 1979, Texas made the day a statewide holiday. Today over forty-seven states recognize Juneteenth as a state holiday. Most recently, Governor Andrew Cuomo signed an executive order declaring that New York State also recognize this sacred celebration. Efforts to make it a national holiday have repeatedly stalled in Congress.
In Rochester, NY the Legacy Drama House, a popular neighborhood and community focused entertainment venue celebrated Juneteenth on Saturday June 20, 2020. Over twenty Black business vendors advertised their products and services in the parking lot of the facility. Wares included Black Lives Matter inspired t-shirts, body butters, jewelry, legal services and of course delicious food from a broad variety of eateries. Background music was provided by soulful and socially conscious DJ Dana. The Womba Africa drumming and dance group created the ideal cultural ambiance.
The event was free to the public and was well attended by a continual flow of diverse pedestrian and vehicle traffic. Given the current pandemic climate, attendees were required to wear masks to enter the parking lot and encouraged to stay socially distant. The organizers are committed to continuing this worthwhile holiday for many years to come!