This Saturday, June 19, we celebrate Juneteenth, a holiday recognizing the emancipation of enslaved Black people after the Civil War. As written by those at Albina Vision Trust, this day is a “celebration of Black culture, freedom, and joy,” and we encourage Lloyd community members to get involved by learning more about the historical significance of Juneteenth and attending events this Saturday.

Juneteenth was first celebrated on June 19, 1866, one year after “General Order No.3” was issued, announcing to enslaved people in Texas that the Civil War had ended and that all enslaved people were free. While Juneteenth has been celebrated for over 100 years, public conversation about the holiday has only recently expanded, as can be seen in the recent decision by the Senate to make it a federal holiday. Want to learn more? Check out these articles from The Root and the New York Times. 

Lloyd Community Events with Albina Vision Trust

We at Lloyd EcoDistrict are especially excited to highlight the work of Albina Vision Trust this Juneteenth. For Lloyd community members specifically, supporting this Black-led organization is crucial, as we operate in Portland’s Albina neighborhood, a historically Black neighborhood that has faced urban renewal and displacement. These events are a great opportunity, right here in our community, to get involved in our community and take personal responsibility for understanding Black history. We hope to see you there!

The first event put on by Albina Vision Trust is a Teach-In workshop running from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM on June 19. The virtual event will discuss the neighborhood’s history, current dilemmas, and plans for the future. You can register on their website. Attendance is free, but donations are also welcome. 

The second event takes place later that day, from 9:00 PM to 12:00 AM, where they will be screening two films about the Black community in Portland. The event will be held at Benton Lot on N Broadway and N Benton Ave and has a sliding payment scale of $0-8. If preferred, you can also stream the films virtually. You can find all the registration information on their website. 

Sharita Towne will present: Thanking Black Educators in Light & Sound. This will be an honoring of Black educators and visionaries with a projected video collage on the Portland Public Schools HQ building (501 N Dixon). Drop by between 10-11:30p – no registration needed!

We hope you can attend these events and support the work of Albina Vision Trust on this meaningful holiday. 

Tags: Albina Vision Trust, Juneteenth