(ELIZABETH, NJ) -- The city of Elizabeth will warm its streets by celebrating Juneteenth, honoring African American heritage and culture. Come join the Juneteenth festivities on Sunday, June 18th, 2023 at 1:00pm that will kick off with a parade at the Veterans Memorial Waterfront in Elizabeth, NJ.
With a focus on achievement and cultural pride, the Juneteenth Parade will start at the Veterans Memorial Waterfront on 71 Front St, Elizabeth, NJ, and will culminate at the historic First Presbyterian Church, where the 313 Monument Unveiling will also take place.
"In collaboration with the Juneteenth Collective 1865, 313+ Ancestors Speak Project is excited to host this historic monument unveiling ceremony to give voice to the lives of 313+ enslaved and free African ancestors buried in Elizabeth," said Rev. Wanda Lundy, Pastor of the Siloam-Hope First Presbyterian Church.
Juneteenth is recognized as a celebration honoring African American heritage and culture, commemorating the end of the Civil War and slavery in the South. The Juneteenth Parade has become a beloved annual tradition in Elizabeth, bringing together thousands of families and friends. This year, the Juneteenth festivity will showcase the unveiling of a 313+ historic monument including a “beat of drums” prelude followed by a pouring of libations to honor the ancestors, and a huge community celebration with food, music, and dancing.
Everyone is invited to join and immerse themselves in Elizabeth's Juneteenth Celebration as they honor the ancestors. Attendees are encouraged to showcase their heritage and creativity by wearing traditional attire or colors that represent the spirit of Juneteenth.
Volunteers are also needed to help with parade set-up, cleanup, and logistics of the unveiling. Become a part of making history, everyone is welcome to donate a brick and partake in completing the memorial monument and/or assist with the fundraiser goal of $10,000 to help make this year’s celebration the best one yet!
With its many outstanding cultural and dynamic events in town, Elizabeth is New Jersey’s most convenient travel gateway, just minutes from NYC and Newark Liberty International Airport. Elizabeth’s rich authentic history draws tourists to its historic landmarks and sites as well as to its high-end outlet shopping mall The Mills at Jersey Gardens (0% tax on clothes and shoes) and its entertainment districts.
Visit Elizabeth, New Jersey and be immersed in its authentic diverse culture. For hotel accommodations visit http://www.goelizabethnj.com/stay and for a full schedule of Elizabeth, NJ’s events and programs please visit http://www.goelizabethnj.com/events or download the mobile app goelizabethnj.
