Juneteenth, commemorated every June 19, marks the day in 1865 when the last enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, finally learned of their freedom—two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. It is a powerful reminder that freedom delayed is freedom denied.
Today, communities across the Northland embrace Juneteenth as a living celebration of Black resilience, culture, and the ongoing pursuit of justice and equity. It is also a moment to reflect on our shared responsibility to shape a future where everyone can thrive—together.
At Boreal Waters Community Foundation, we believe that the work of advancing equity must be sustained, visible, and deeply rooted in place. That is why we are honored to stand alongside Black-led organizations and partners across our region in supporting this year’s Juneteenth celebrations.
Through our Unity Fund—a fund inspired and guided by African Heritage community members, $65,000 was awarded to support local Juneteenth events this year. These grants fuel gatherings that uplift, educate, and unite us while investing in Black leadership, cultural preservation, community well-being, and intergenerational connection.
The Unity Fund is one way Boreal Waters is striving to live our values of collaboration, equity, trust, and curiosity—not just during Juneteenth, but every day.
Hosted by Health Equity Northland
📅 Friday, June 13 at 11:30AM
📍 Central Hillside Community Center, 12 East 4th Street Duluth, MN 55805
The Elders Luncheon will bring together elders for a nourishing meal of African Heritage cultural foods prepared by a local chef. Each elder will also receive a seedling to foster connection through gardening and cultural knowledge-sharing.
Hosted by Family Rise Together
📅 Saturday, June 14 at 1PM
📍 Harrison Community Center - 3005 W. 3rd Street MN 55806
This annual Family Day (formerly known as the Twin Ports Juneteenth event) is FREE for all, so bring your family and friends! Get ready to laugh, dance, and enjoy a fantastic day with the community.
Hosted by Health Equity Northland
📅 Sunday, June 15 at 10AM
📍 Essentia Parking Lot - N 5th Avenue E Duluth, MN 55805
Celebrate Father’s Day with music, spiritual reflection, and cultural programming, in partnership with St. Mark AME and local Black-owned businesses like Superior Waffle. A space for joy, healing, and community connection.
Hosted by Family Freedom Center
📅 Sunday, June 15 from 2 - 7PM
📍 Central Hillside Community Park - 12 E 4th St. Duluth, MN 55805
All are invited to join for an epic afternoon of music, performances, vendors, and community vibes!
Hosted by Voices for Ethnic and Multicultural Awareness (VEMA)
📅 Thursday, June 19 from 11AM - 3PM
📍 Minnesota Discovery Center, 1005 Discovery Dr, Chisholm, MN 55719
A vibrant celebration of freedom on the Iron Range! Free meal (11 AM–1 PM), live entertainment, music, games, and free access to the Minnesota Discovery Center’s museum and grounds.
Hosted by Duluth Branch NAACP
📅 Thursday, June 19 from 3PM – 7PM
📍 Central Hillside Community Center, 12 E 4th St, Duluth, MN 55805
A beloved community tradition! Celebrate Juneteenth with food, family, entertainment, and a spirit of unity and joy. All are welcome.
As we celebrate Juneteenth, we also renew our commitment to advancing equity, amplifying Black voices, and investing in a future where every community can thrive.
At Boreal Waters, we know this work is not about one day or one fund. It is about building authentic relationships, centering lived experiences, and supporting community-led solutions—year-round.
We invite you to stand with us:
If you’re not able to attend in person, please consider making a gift to the Unity Fund.
Your support fuels this vital work—helping to preserve culture, build community, and advance equity across the Northland.
Wishing you a Happy Juneteenth!