Honoring Our Past. Celebrating the Present. Renewing Faith in the Future.
The John Brown Institute of the Summit County Historical Society of Akron will be partnering with many organizations for the annual Juneteenth programming on June 19th between 4 and 7 p.m.
There will be a hike to the John Brown Monument at the Akron Zoo starting at 4 p.m. Please enter the zoo from Euclid Avenue and turn left to go to the back parking lot. The group will walk up the hill to the monument together shortly after 4 p.m. Prepare to walk on uneven terrain that is uphill. This free opportunity will end by 4:45 p.m.
Activities at the John Brown House will also start at 4 p.m. with diverse African American cuisine, vendors, cultural organizations and tours of the John Brown House that includes a new display by the Akron Black Artist Guild featuring Charisse M. Harris. Artist Xposyur will give a spoken word presentation at 5:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Guests will be asked to join in a Community Talk Back by sharing "What Juneteenth Means to You." The grounds and house will be open for free. Guests may purchase food and items from vendors on site.
There will also be a bus tour of African American historical sites including the University of Akron's Dr. Shirla R. McClain Gallery of Akron's Black History and Culture, Wesley Temple A.M.E. Zion Church, the Sojourner Truth Legacy Plaza and Statue and the Matthews Hotel. Tickets for this tour are $20.00 per person.
This is a joyful celebration! Come and join us for a time of reflection on the historical highlights, accomplishments and resilience of our African American community.