Juneteenth Celebration – Honoring Freedom, History, and Community
Since 2016, Channel A TV Foundation has proudly partnered with The Kent Black Action Commission (KBAC) to produce the annual Juneteenth Celebration in Kent, Washington. This significant event brings together families, civic leaders, artists, and community members from across the region to celebrate Black excellence, honor African American heritage, and reflect on the continuing journey toward equality and justice.
Our Mission and Community Impact
At Channel A TV Foundation, we believe in the power of storytelling, culture, and unity. Our Juneteenth Celebration is more than a festival—it is a movement of education, empowerment, and engagement. Through vibrant cultural performances, historical storytelling, community townhalls, and youth involvement, we create a meaningful space where history is remembered, achievements are recognized, and the future is inspired.
Each year, we feature:
- Live music and dance performances
- Local Black-owned business vendors and food trucks
- Community resources and health services
- Children’s activities and educational exhibits
- Keynote speakers and guest appearances by local leaders
By working alongside KBAC and other community partners, we continue to elevate this celebration as a cornerstone of cultural pride and civic engagement in the Pacific Northwest.
What is Juneteenth? A Brief History
Juneteenth—short for June 19th—marks the day in 1865 when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas to announce the end of the Civil War and the emancipation of all enslaved African Americans. This moment came more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863.
Though freedom had been legally granted, enforcement was slow and uneven in parts of the former Confederacy. Juneteenth has since become a symbolic date representing African American freedom, resilience, and progress.
In 2021, Juneteenth was officially recognized as a federal holiday in the United States, acknowledging its deep historical significance and affirming its role in shaping the nation’s collective identity.
Join Us in Celebration
We invite you to be part of this powerful tradition. Whether you are attending for the first time or returning with your family, the Juneteenth Celebration in Kent is a space for learning, healing, and uniting.
To get involved, become a sponsor, or volunteer, please contact us at info@channelatv.org.
Together, let’s continue to honor the past, celebrate the present, and build a future rooted in justice and unity.
