Our annual Juneteenth celebration brings together families, neighbors, and community partners for an evening of inspiring speakers, interactive activities, and live performances. From Double Dutch to Zumba, shared stories to shared meals, this is a night that honors the past and invests in the future. The pool opens early, the food trucks roll in, and the community shows up. All are welcome.
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.
The event will feature live performances, inspiring speakers, interactive activities, food, local vendors, and access to our outdoor pool starting at 4:00 PM! Whether you’re coming to enjoy the music, swim, engage in discussions, or connect with your community, there’s something for everyone.
FRIDAY, JUNE 19
5:00-8:00 PM
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.
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:
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.
