By Dr. Lynnā McPhatter-Harris 
Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, holds profound significance in California and across the United States as a commemoration of the end of slavery. For the children and families served by the East Bay Children’s Law Offices (EBCLO), this holiday represents a powerful reminder of resilience, freedom, and the ongoing struggle for equality and justice. Recognized officially as a state holiday in California, Juneteenth offers an opportunity to educate younger generations about the historical injustices faced by African Americans and the importance of continued advocacy for civil rights and social justice.
In the East Bay, Juneteenth is marked by vibrant community events, educational programs, and cultural celebrations that highlight African American heritage and contributions. These activities provide a platform for children to engage with their history and heritage in a meaningful way, fostering a sense of pride and identity. For EBCLO, participating in and supporting Juneteenth events is integral to our mission of empowering youth and families through education and advocacy. By celebrating Juneteenth, we honor the progress made while recognizing the work still needed to ensure equality and justice for all. Here are some things happening around the Bay Area:
- Juneteenth at Children’s Discovery Museum: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. June 19, 180 Woz Way, San Jose. Celebrate African American culture at Children’s Discovery Museum (https://www.cdm.org/celebrate/community-celebrations/juneteenth/)
- Juneteeth at East Bay Regional Parks: June 19, various Bay Area parks. The East Bay Regional Park District is celebrating Juneteenth with a Free Park Day.( org/we-celebrate/juneteenth)
- OMCA Hella Juneteenth Cookout:1 to 5 p.m. June 19, Oakland Museum of California, 1000 Oak St., Oakland. (org/event/hella-juneteenth-the-cookout)
- Pleasant Hill Juneteenth Celebration:5 to 9 p.m. June 19, Lake at City Hall, 100 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill. (gov/1608/Juneteenth-Celebration-2024)
- Juneteenth in the Town Jubilee:5:30 to 8:30 p.m. June 19, Block Community Hub, 1955 Broadway, Oakland. (com/JuneteenthTownJubilee)
- Marin City Juneteenth Festival:10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. June 22, Rocky Graham Park, 800 Drake Ave., Sausalito. (info/)
- Hayward Juneteenth Celebration:12 to 6 p.m. June 22, Hayward Heritage Plaza, 835 C St., Hayward. (com/cityofhayward/p/C7SUQQ2vN-7/)
- ‘Fallen Heroes, Rising Stars’ Juneteenth Celebration:3 to 5 p.m. June 22, Grown Women Dance Collective, 9th St. between Broadway & Washington, Oakland. (org/juneteenth-2022-1)
- Juneteenth Foodie Fest:12 to 6 pm. June 23, Chabot College, 25555 Hesperian Blvd., Hayward (com/JuneteenthFoodie)