Tacoma celebrates Juneteenth with the states biggest event

On June 19, Juneteenth will be celebrated as a federal holiday, marking the abolition of slavery in the United States. The largest celebration in Washington state will take place at Stewart Heights Park, with an anticipated turnout of over 15,000 people. Attendees can look forward to live performances from Grammy winners Fred Hammond and Crystal Aikin, along with R&B group Soul for Real, among others. The event will feature over 150 vendors, a Kid’s Play Zone, and various community resources, showcasing local culture and art. In addition, the Washington State History Museum will host a free evening program highlighting the contributions of Black artists.

Eva Abram, known for her dynamic storytelling, will lead the event, which reflects on the historical significance of Juneteenth. This holiday was officially recognized in 2021 when President Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law. The celebration serves as an important reminder of the ongoing journey toward economic freedom and equality.