To the UMB Community,

 This month marks the fourth year that the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) will celebrate and honor Juneteenth as an observed holiday.

 Juneteenth commemorates the announcement of the abolition of slavery in Texas on June 19, 1865, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. Also known as Freedom Day or Black Independence Day, Juneteenth marks the official end of slavery in the United States and is observed annually on June 19, hence the name Juneteenth.

 This holiday is important in American history because it highlights and represents the struggle for freedom and recognition for African Americans who were not truly emancipated or integrated into the American dream of freedom. Its observance is a reminder of the importance of the ongoing struggles toward a truly free and democratic society and the urgency of promoting and protecting human rights and justice in the present and the future.

At UMB, we value equity, justice, respect, and integrity and continue to strive to live out these core values to foster greater inclusion and equity. Let us continue to foster a more just and inclusive UMB community and society at large. We also invite you to join us at the Juneteenth events listed below.

 In partnership and collaboration,

Diane Forbes Berthoud, PhD, MA

Chief Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Officer and Vice President, UMB
Professor, Graduate School

JUNETEENTH EVENTS

Protecting Black Wealth

June 12 | 10-11:30 a.m. | School of Social Work Auditorium | Register here for June 12

This event coordinated by the School of Social Work, Intercultural Center, and Community Engagement Center (CEC) is focused on safeguarding the wealth, health, and overall well-being of the Black community. It will delve into the crucial aspects of financial stability, physical health, and mental wellness while exploring their intricate connections and offering actionable insights.

 Juneteenth Community Day 

June 13 | 4-6 p.m. | 873 W. Baltimore St. | Register here for June 13

This event coordinated by the School of Social Work, Intercultural Center, and CEC features food, giveaways, and music. Wear a Juneteenth T-shirt and join the celebration in the parking lot across from the CEC.

 Moving Forward and Beyond: A Juneteenth Celebration

June 15 | 2-3 p.m. | Walters Art Museum | Register here for June 15

The museum invites you to enjoy a free musical and operatic performance by singer Alexandria Crichlow and pianist Samuel Springer. This event celebrates the African diaspora with a selection of aria from different genres and cultures.

 Juneteenth and Pride Social Hour

June 18 | Noon-1 p.m. | School of Nursing Lobby

Join the School of Nursing’s Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion for a social hour celebrating Pride Month and Juneteenth. We encourage you to come wearing your most vibrant colors!

In Celebration of Juneteenth

June 18 | 7 p.m. | Enoch Pratt Central Library, Poe Room

What are the origins of the Juneteenth holiday celebration in the United States, and why does it resonate with us? Discover the story of Juneteenth during a talk by Bradley Alston, Baltimore’s Black history expert.