Kean University's new Center for Africana Studies to Host Juneteenth Jamboree

Published by New Jersey Stage

originally published: 06/18/2024

Photo courtesy of Kean University

(UNION, NJ) -- Kean University's new Center for Africana Studies will host its first Juneteenth Jamboree on Wednesday, June 19, 2024 to celebrate the day slavery ended in the United States. The event, which is open to the public, comes as the University announces that Phi Beta Sigma, one of the oldest historically Black fraternities in the country, is joining the KEANetwork employee benefit program.

“As an anchor institution and the first urban research university in New Jersey, Kean is committed to celebrating diversity and supporting diverse communities,” said Kean President Lamont O. Repollet, Ed.D., who is also a member of Phi Beta Sigma. “Juneteenth is an important cultural touchstone in the Black community – and access to academic excellence, through the KEANetwork, is an important pathway to future success. We are honored to be part of both of these initiatives.”

The KEANetwork provides participating businesses and organizations benefits for their employees who attend Kean University, including tuition discounts and additional support. Phi Beta Sigma is an international organization based in Washington, D.C.

“Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. is excited about this partnership with Kean University. One of the fraternity’s core principles is scholarship. As an organization that’s 110+ years old, we will continue to cultivate educational pathways and learning experiences for our members,” said Phi Beta Sigma International Executive Director Phillip Cockrell, Ph.D. “We are elated to have Bro. Dr. Repollet at the helm of Kean University.”

Juneteenth marks the anniversary of the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation, in Texas in 1865. It was declared a public holiday in New Jersey in 2020 and a national holiday in 2021.

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The Juneteenth Jamboree will start with a Freedom Walk at 10:00am at Harwood Arena on June 19, followed by remarks from Repollet, and other university, government and faith leaders.

The Jamboree, featuring food trucks and vendors, community activities, a DJ and more, will run from noon to 2:00pm.

“Kean’s Juneteenth Jamboree is dedicated to honoring the spirit and history of Juneteenth, and we have planned a day filled with joy, reflection and community,” said David Jefferson Jr., Ed.D., acting director for Kean’s Center for Africana Studies. “The energy and unity that this event fosters are truly inspiring. I'm particularly excited about the opportunity to engage with the community, hear from our esteemed speakers, and enjoy the performances and demonstrations that showcase our rich heritage."

Kean created the Center for Africana Studies earlier this year, at the start of Black History Month. Housed within Kean’s College of Education, the Center is designed to become a leading resource for scholarly research, community engagement and educational programming.

The Juneteenth Jamboree is also sponsored by the Kean University College of Education, Generation 2 Generation and the Division of Entrepreneurial Education Initiatives.

Kean University, New Jersey’s urban research university, is a national institution of higher education recognized for its diversity, innovation and the social mobility of its graduates. Founded in 1855 as a teachers college, Kean has evolved into a thriving research university that supports students as they persist to graduation, give back to their communities and launch successful careers. Kean’s six colleges offer more than 50 undergraduate programs, six doctoral degree programs and more than 70 options leading to master’s degrees, professional diplomas or certifications, across a full range of academic subjects. With campuses in Union, Toms River and Manahawkin, New Jersey, and Wenzhou, China, as well as Kean Online, the University provides students of all backgrounds an affordable and accessible world-class education.