The Peale and the Griots’ Circle of Maryland present a Juneteenth virtual storytelling event featuring African American storytellers.

About this event

Juneteenth Stories of Freedom

The Peale and the Griots’ Circle of Maryland present a Juneteenth virtual storytelling event featuring African American storytellers. The celebration will unite all people in the spirit of activism inspired by the recent human rights protests. The stories of freedom will bring to life heroes from the past and others will highlight the present passion for social justice.

Juneteenth is the annual observance also known as Emancipation Day. It recognizes freedom finally arriving for enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas nearly two years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers enforced the law by publicly reading General Order number 3 which freed all remaining enslaved people. Throughout Texas, African Americans observe the June 19 holiday with parades, cook outs, speeches and dancing. Now, Juneteenth is celebrated worldwide.