Tucson Standard

The University of Arizona is set to commemorate Juneteenth with a series of events throughout June, including lectures and a food tasting event. The holiday, observed on June 19, marks the arrival of Union soldiers in Galveston, Texas, in 1865 to announce the freedom of enslaved people, over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.

Having begun recognizing Juneteenth as a paid holiday in 2023, the university's Office of Black Advancement and Engagement will host talks every Tuesday at 2 p.m. during June. These events are open to the public and will take place in the Pima Room on level three of the Student Union Memorial Center.

The lecture series includes:

- June 4: "Beyond Juneteenth: The Legacy of Juneteenth" by Lehman Benson

- June 11: "Beyond Juneteenth: Why Everyone Can Celebrate" by Tani Sanchez

- June 18: "History of Juneteenth – Historical Context" by Johnny Bowens

Lehman Benson stated, "Our lecture series will allow the community to celebrate the history and legacy of Juneteenth as well as Black history in Tucson and the Southwest." He emphasized that celebrating Juneteenth aligns with the university's core value of inclusion.

In collaboration with the Tucson Juneteenth Festival, Arizona Athletics will hold its third annual Shoe Drive on June 15 at McKale Center Ticket Office. Thomas Harris remarked, "I've been honored to be involved with the university's official Juneteenth celebrations for the past two years," highlighting that over 800 pairs of shoes have been collected through this initiative.

A cultural food event titled "Juneteenth and Beyond – Culture of Food" is scheduled for June 25 at Cork & Craft restaurant within the Student Union Memorial Center. This event aims to showcase African American cuisine's rich history and flavors. Tickets can be purchased online.

Further details about these events can be found on the university's Beyond Juneteenth website.