The Parish of Saint Monica in Atlantic City will be hosting the annual Juneteenth Celebration and luncheon sponsored by the Black Catholic Ministry Commission of the Diocese of Camden.
“Juneteenth is a story to be told, and African-Americans are trying to make everyone aware of this part of our history that has finally been recognized as a National Holiday,” said Blanche Toole, a member of the parish and of the Commission’s Juneteenth Committee. “It’s a story our children should know, a story that our ancestors were a part of, and a story we are hoping won’t get swept under a mat.”
Faithful from across the Diocese are invited to join in the celebration, which will take place on Saturday, June 17, from 2-5 p.m. at Quaremba Hall (10 North Mississippi Ave., Atlantic City). Parking will be available behind Saint Michael’s Church on Georgia Avenue.
This year’s celebration will include prayer, song, spoken word, a question-and-answer session, dancers and refreshments – and will also include more interactive components.
“Those attending will get to hear the true meaning of Juneteenth and why this holiday is celebrated,” said Toole. “It was very successful last year, and we are hoping attendance will be even greater this year.”
Now a federal holiday, Juneteenth celebrates the 1865 emancipation of enslaved people. The holiday was first celebrated in Texas following the Civil War and under the terms of the Emancipation Proclamation in 1862.
“The day of course will be an opportunity to learn more about Juneteenth and the African-America slavery experience. We invite and encourage all our brother and sisters of every race to join us,” said Toole. “You won’t have to ask, ‘What’s that all about’; come out and see for yourself.”
When asked about the celebration, Karen Johnson, secretary for the Black Catholic Ministry Commission, shared a portion of a statement issued by former President Barack Obama in observance of Juneteenth in 2015: “Juneteenth has never been a celebration of victory, or an acceptance of the way things are. Instead, it’s a celebration of progress. It’s an affirmation that despite the most painful parts of our history, things do get better. America can change.”
Established in 1987, the Commission sponsors events for Catholics throughout the Diocese each year, including an annual day of reflection, a Jazz social, annual essay contests and scholarships, retreats and more.
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