Programs
Juneteenth
The Past
Media created a false narrative of what Juneteenth is by painting it as a “celebration” to the end of slavery in the United States. In reality, it is the date 250,000 enslaved Black Americans in Galveston, Texas, were told they were free on June 19, 1865 – 2.5 years after the Emancipation Proclamation (signed Jan. 1, 1863) went into effect. Outdoor Afro is correcting this narrative by sharing this history nationwide. To honor this day, we encourage our community, partners, and regional networks to spend time in nature (whether a nearby beach or public park for example). Outdoor Afro invites neighborhoods across the United States to join the network to reflect on and commemorate freedom, asking ourselves: What does freedom mean to me?
The Present
Network theme for this year: “Juneteenth 2022: Reflecting on Freedom with Outdoor Afro.” Our commemoration takes place Sunday, June 19, on the nation’s designated three-day holiday weekend. It’s Outdoor Afro’s way of continuing to educate and course correct digital audiences and the general public about the true meaning of Juneteenth.
How You Can Get Involved?
REGISTER HERE. By doing so, you’re simply pledging to join us in nature. That’s it. We’re aiming to get 50,000 people outside – from anywhere you feel comfortable in nature for only 2.5 hours – to reflect in honor of the 2.5 years that freedom delayed for 250,000 enslaved people of Galveston, Texas.
REFLECT HERE AFTER JUNE 19. Immediately after Juneteenth, we want to know how you spent your 2.5 hours outdoors. Your story connects to the American storyline by becoming a modern-day change agent to our nation’s past. Outdoor Afro welcomes your nature-rich content to add to our Black joy and Black healing narrative.
2022 Sponsors
Thank you to this year’s organizations that have committed to our Juneteenth commemoration with Outdoor Afro. Through your support, we’re able to engage thousands of people in reflecting on what it truly means to be free in America.
Leader Sponsors: Save the Redwoods, Chacos, The Northlight Foundation
