651 ARTS, Brooklyn’s leading organization for African Diasporic arts, is bringing back its annual Juneteenth celebration. Now in its fifth year, the event will take place on Saturday, June 21, from 2:00pm to 8:00pm at Ashland Plaza in Downtown Brooklyn.
This year’s theme, “We Outside: A Brooklyn Juneteenth, Vol. III,” focuses on the importance of building community and working together, especially during a time when arts and culture are facing serious funding challenges nationwide.
“This year, it was really important for us to double down on the intent of creating an event commemorating Liberation Day for Black people in America by really reinforcing the ideals of unity, resilience and perseverance that continue to push us forward as a people through the lens of music, dance and community gathering as a generative way to respond to this moment in our nation’s history," said 651 ARTS’ Executive Director Toya A. Lillard.
The celebration is inspired by artist Faith Ringgold, who was known for her colorful quilt artwork that told powerful stories about Black life and freedom.
This year’s program includes several exciting and meaningful activities. The Cypher will use dance styles like voguing, house and soul line dancing to explore freedom through movement. Young, Gifted & Black: A Celebration of HBCU Culture will honor the spirit of historically Black colleges and universities with performances from marching bands, majorette squads and step teams.
The celebration is presented in partnership with The Soapbox Presents, a popular outdoor concert series.
“As so many things shift for each and every person who calls this country home, it is of the utmost importance that we gather to collectively manifest freedom!" said Marija Abney, the founder and executive director of The Soapbox Presents. "It is our mission to create safe spaces where we can actively practice being liberated. With double dutch, marching bands, drumlines, poets, dancers, and vendors we will explore Black expression in many forms."
Another highlight is Melanated Notes, which pairs poets and musicians for powerful spoken word performances. The Soapbox Presents will also bring its signature Stoop Sessions to the event, turning the steps of Ashland Plaza into a stage for local talent.
Food trucks and vendors will be on-site all day, offering a variety of options from the local community. The event is family-friendly and open to all but registration is encouraged.
