A Community Celebration of Freedom and Culture
On Thursday, June 19, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, the Summit Area YMCA invites you to a meaningful and vibrant celebration of Juneteenth at the Berkeley Heights YMCA, 59 Locust Avenue, Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922. This free community event brings people together to reflect on history, celebrate freedom, and strengthen our commitment to unity.
This year, we are proud to highlight the pivotal contributions of Black women throughout history. The event will feature live performances, inspiring speakers, interactive activities, food trucks, and local vendors. Whether you’re coming to enjoy the music, engage in discussions, or connect with the community, there’s something for everyone.
Join us as we honor these trailblazing women and continue the journey toward unity and equality.
What is Juneteenth and Why Does it Matter?
Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, marks June 19, 1865—the day Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation and free the last enslaved African Americans. This was more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the proclamation.
Recognized as a federal holiday in 2021, Juneteenth is a celebration of resilience, progress, and the ongoing pursuit of justice.
“Juneteenth has never been a celebration of victory or an acceptance of the way things are. Instead, it’s a celebration of progress.”
– President Barack Obama (White House)
Despite progress, racial disparities persist. A report from the Brookings Institute found that Black Americans continue to face income inequality, lower homeownership rates, and health disparities (Brookings Institute).
Juneteenth is not just about history—it’s about moving forward. Events like this create opportunities for education, engagement, and community-building to work toward a more just and equitable future.
How to Attend
This event is free and open to all, but registration is required.
OUR SPONSERS
Support Juneteenth: Donations & Sponsorships
Make a Donation
Help support educational programming, engaging activities, and enriching cultural experiences at the Juneteenth Celebration.
Visit www.thesay.org/donate and write “Juneteenth” in the Additional Comments section to direct your gift to this event.
Become a Sponsor
Sponsorships play a key role in making this event possible. Sponsors receive marketing exposure, social media recognition, and opportunities to speak at the event.
Sponsorship levels:
- Title Sponsor: $5,000 (one available)
- Gold: $2,500
- Silver: $1,000
- Bronze: $500
- Allyship: $250
For full sponsorship details, click here to view the sponsorship packet.
For sponsorship inquiries, contact Trevor Cromwell, Director for Teens & Equity, at trevor.cromwell@thesay.org or call (908) 273-3330 Ext. 1140.
A Celebration for Everyone
“Juneteenth is the essence of what it means to be free in America. It is an opportunity for all of us to embrace the past while taking responsibility for the future.”
– Dr. Opal Lee, “The Grandmother of Juneteenth” (NPR)
Join us as we honor the past, celebrate the present, and build a stronger future together.
For more information, contact Trevor Cromwell at trevor.cromwell@thesay.org.
