This year marks the 158th anniversary of Juneteenth, the oldest nationally-celebrated commemoration of the end of slavery in the United States.
Underscored by the Jewish tenant to work towards equity, equality and justice, various Jewish and advocacy organizations are holding in-person and virtual programs to observe this important federal and Pennsylvania state holiday.
In the spirit of tikkun olam (repair the world), see below for the following Juneteenth events to celebrate, educate and advocate.
1. Juneteenth Community Shabbat
Friday, June 16, 2023 | 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Washington, D.C. or Virtual
Join Washington Hebrew Congregation to welcome Shabbat and recognize Juneteenth with the Jews of Color Group and community partners. The evening will feature the music of Lapidus & Myles, drinks and desserts. There will be games, crafts and activities available for kids to enjoy. To register, click here.
2. Juneteenth Shabbat 2023
Friday, June 16, 2023 | 7:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Princeton Junction, NJ or Virtual
Join Congregation Beth Chaim for a Juneteenth Shabbat Service, featuring African-American jazz pianist Warren Byrd and Jewish-American jazz bassist David Chevan. The evening will also include special guest Preacher Pastor Kahlil Carmichael of Live Well Church and an Oneg (informal Shabbat celebration following the service). To register, click here.
3. Juneteenth Shabbat Services
Friday, June 16, 2023 | 6:00 p.m.
New York, NY or Virtual
Join The Temple Emanu-El Streiker Center for Shabbat services with special guest Senator Cory Booker, former mayor of Newark, NJ. The evening will honor Juneteenth, the 158 years of liberation and the suffering of the generations who did not survive to experience it. To register, click here.
4. Juneteenth - Siblings in Oppression
Sunday, June 18, 2023 | 3:00 p.m.
Malcolm X Park, Philadelphia
After the Juneteenth parade, join Tribe 12 to learn about the history of the day and why some call the black and Jewish communities Siblings in Oppression. To register, click here.
5. Juneteenth Jewbilee
Monday, June 19, 2023 | 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Congregation Beth El Voorhees
Celebrate freedom with an evening that features live music with Elle Gyandoh and the John Doe Band. The entire community is invited to join Achim Sheli: My Brothers & Sisters at Beth El for food, crafts for kids, vendors, special guests and more. To register, click here.
Saturday, June 24, 2023 | 1:00 p.m.
Virtual
Blacks and Jews are frequently pitted against each other as anti-Black racism and antisemitism are exposed in public discussion. When that happens, white supremacy celebrates. Join the third annual Juneteenth Summit by the Racial Justice Collaborative (RJC) and focus on strengthening the relationship between the Black and Jewish communities. To register, click here.
7. Freedom is a Verb: Juneteenth and the Ongoing Struggle for Liberation
Monday, June 26, 2023 | 8:00 p.m.
Virtual
In honor of Juneteenth, join Zioness and Jewish Federations' JEDI Initiative for Jewish Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion for a presentation by Black and Jewish educator Raven Schwam-Curtis, who will be speaking on the origins of this important holiday. The discussion will explore the historical significance of Juneteenth as well as the best practices for honoring these histories without exploiting Black trauma. To register, click here.
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To see more Juneteenth opportunities in Greater Philadelphia, click here.
The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia recommits to honoring the stories and achievements of Black Americans and to working towards freedom and liberation in our time.
