Dear Community,
This Monday, June 19th, our organization will be closed to honor Juneteenth, a date that marks the end of slavery in the United States. On that day in 1865, more than 250,000 Black Americans learned they were freed under the Emancipation Act. This came over two years after it was already signed into law by President Abraham Lincoln but evaded by southerners in moving enslaved people to Texas.
Juneteenth is a time for celebration and a paramount opportunity for reflection. Just three years after the murder of George Floyd, Tyre Nichols and the countless murders in between, the mental health toll of structural racism has never been more pressing. Data thoroughly outlines the impact of racial discrimination on mental health issues including depression, anxiety, substance use and PTSD. The work for real equity and justice is very much ahead of us, as mental health professionals and members of society, at large.
One of our core values is to be a consistent voice for what truly matters. For two centuries, our systems have neglected the Black American experience, the trauma of slavery and the struggles of the Civil Rights movement and mass incarcerations. Our call to honor history celebrates the milestones like the Harlem Renaissance, the Great Migration and the continual achievements and contributions of the Black community. This weekend and on Monday, June 19th, we look forward to celebrating and uplifting Black voices, sharing educational resources and participating in Juneteenth activities in each of our local cities.
With Gratitude,
John McGeehan, LCSW | Founder & CEO
Honoring Juneteenth in New York City
The 14th Annual Kaleidoscope of Black Culture
Friday, June 16th – Sunday, June 18th
A three day festival of music, Black vendors, and community celebration at Linden Park & Prospect Park Brooklyn, NY.
Do you or a loved one need help with mental health?
The Dorm is here.
Juneteenth at Seneca Village
Sunday, June 18th at 10:00 am
A day of exploring the long-standing connections Black New Yorkers have with wellness and nature. Seneca Village West Side between 82nd and 89th. Illustrative artwork created by Daniel Fishel.
Juneteenth Jubilee
Saturday, June 17 4:00-5:30 pm
A block party performance celebrating the cultural contributions of Black Americans with music, dance, puppetry, and storytelling at Greenwich House, NY.
Juneteenth Events in Washington, D.C.
Celebrate Juneteenth DC
Sunday, June 18 11:00 am – 5:00 pm
Celebrate Juneteenth features Black-owned businesses, performances, crafts, music and more at Brookland Arts Walk, DC.
Live! At The Library: Black Archives
Thursday, June 15 6:00-7:00 pm
LOC and the Daniel A.P. Murray Association welcome Renata Cherlise to discuss her book, with curators from the Prints & Photographs Division who will share images from Rosa Parks’ family photos and other Library treasures at Library of Congress, DC.
Creative Suitland’s Juneteenth Arts and Cultural Festival
Saturday, June 17- Sunday, June 18
A two day festival featuring live performances, a community drum circle, farmer’s market, spoken word performances, film screening, and genealogy resources at Creative Suitland, DC.
