The first Juneteenth celebration will be held at Montana State

Bozeman, Montana – The first-ever Juneteenth Celebration at Montana State University will take place on Monday, June 19, from 5 to 7 p.m. on the campus lawn to the north of Romney Hall.

This open, free event aims to honor Black achievement, American history, and Juneteenth, the official federal holiday honoring the emancipation of African Americans who were held in slavery. The occasion will include a festival with speakers, music, food, and fun for the whole family. It is sponsored by the Associated Students of MSU, the Diversity and Inclusion Student Commons, and the MSU Office of Diversity and Inclusion.

“We hope this event will build community in Bozeman while also shining a light on an important part of American history,” said Sanai Mitchell and Kaileia Wendt, co-presidents of the Black Student Union, a registered student organization on campus. Mitchell and Wendt are also members of this year’s Juneteenth Celebration planning committee. “Through food, music and stories we can celebrate our American history and African American culture.”

There will be live music performed by a jazz quintet made up of regional performers. They’ll be followed by DJ Josh Perkins of Justus Entertainment from Bozeman.

Fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, cornbread, and sweet potato pie are just a few examples of the historical and modern significance of the main courses, sides, and desserts that will be served for dinner. Soul food has profound roots in African American history, springing from slavery and representing resiliency, and is loved by people all around the world.

“I am very excited to be a part of something so wonderful and powerful,” said Sara Teklehaimanot, an MSU employee and member of the planning committee. “It brings me joy to celebrate an important part of American history. It’s important that we commemorate the liberation of slaves who’ve helped build this country.”

The members of the planning committee expressed their excitement about inviting community members to campus to take part in the event. Outdoor parking lots offer free parking after six o’clock. You can learn more about parking at https://www.montana.edu/parking/.