FALL RIVER, Mass. - nvtip -- The Bristol Black Collective invites the community to join in a series of events throughout the month of June in honor of Juneteenth. Observed annually on June 19, Juneteenth commemorates the day in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, learned of their freedom—two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. This day, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, has grown into a celebration of African American culture, history, and progress. In 2021, Juneteenth was recognized as a federal holiday, a major milestone that reflects its profound importance in American history.

Through powerful storytelling, dynamic performances, cultural experiences, and educational engagement, the Bristol Black Collective's Juneteenth programming invites everyone to honor Black liberation, reflect on the ongoing fight for justice and equity, and celebrate community resilience and joy. All events are free and open to the public.

Juneteenth Brunch at Duke's Bakery

More on nvtip.com

• Integris Composites Joins Paris Air Show at USA Pavilion
• Cheryl Hines' Trailer PROWLING to Sardinia
• Token-Operated Sake Service Opens at Tobu Nikko Station
• Comedy Icon John Caponera Brings The House Down At Delirious Comedy Club
• Comedy Goes Off The Rails Every Tuesday With "ZANY! Tuesdays" At Delirious Comedy Club

Thursday, June 19
12:00 PM
Duke's Bakery, 1082 Davol St, Fall River, MA

Enjoy a delicious brunch while connecting with community through live spoken word, music, cultural tributes, and stories that inspire. Free and open to the public.

Juneteenth Celebration at Kennedy Park
Saturday, June 21
12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Kennedy Park, Fall River, MA

A vibrant day filled with live music, inspiring speakers, cultural performances, small business vendors, delicious food, and a robust Community Resources Hub. This signature event is a joyful celebration of Black excellence and collective empowerment.

Reading for Change: Community Reading and Drum Circle
Saturday, June 28
12:30 PM
Heritage State Park Visitor Center (Capt. Thomas J. Hudner Jr. Memorial Building), 100 Davol St, Fall River, MA

Join the Bristol Black Collective and the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) at  Heritage State Park for a community reading and discussion of Frederick Douglass' historic speech, "What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?" The reading offers an opportunity to explore Douglass' legacy and its relevance today.

More on nvtip.com

• Innovative EDM Music Project, "Terms of War," Depicts an A.I. Takeover of Earth
• Info-Tech LIVE 2025 Day 3 Highlights: Talent Strategies, the Future of AI and Quantum, and Key Takeaways From Final Day of Major IT Conference
• DESERT HEAT, STEADY POWER: H55 DELIVERS UNMATCHED PERFORMANCE IN HOT CLIMATES
• New Cook Book Release! Tagalog Language: Let's Cook Filipino!
• Discover the Joy of Language Learning with Tagalog Language: Learn Tagalog the Fun and Easy Way!

Following the reading, join us for a high-energy interactive drum circle led by Cornell Coley, an Arts and Diversity Educator, HealthRhythms-trained, and Drum Circle Facilitators Guild-certified facilitator. No experience needed; drums will be provided. All ages are welcome. Learn more at: www.afrolatin.net

These events are made possible through the generous support of our sponsors:
- Bristol County Savings Bank
- Saint Anne's Hospital
- People Incorporated
- BayCoast Bank

The Bristol Black Collective's programs are also supported in part by a grant from Mass Humanities, which receives support from the Mass Cultural Council and is an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.

About the Bristol Black Collective
The Bristol Black Collective is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Black history and culture in Bristol County and beyond. Through educational programs, cultural events, and community engagement, the Collective honors the past, celebrates the present, and empowers the future.