Juneteenth
CMU commemorates Juneteenth each year with a celebration of freedom, unity, and history. In 2026, we're continuing our Juneteenth efforts to include rich educational opportunities, exploration of culture, and community connectedness. Our theme this year is Juneteenth: History That Lives.
Juneteenth will be hosted over the course of 3 days. Wednesday, June 17, we'll hear from community members in an intergenerational panel, discussing the Black Experience in Mount Pleasant. Thursday, June 18, will be a discussion on Black music and film, paired with lunch at CMU. We'll then celebrate Juneteenth at Island Park on Thursday, June 19th.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth (short for June 19th) marks the day when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas in 1865 to notify enslaved people of their freedom. Their arrival came more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, freeing the majority of enslaved people in Confederate states in rebellion against the Union. We celebrate the end of most slavery in the United States. On June 17, 2021, it officially became a federal holiday.
Juneteenth emphasizes African American education and achievement. This is a time when people of all backgrounds join together in recognition of an important period of the nation’s history that continues to influence society today.
Will there be campus celebrations?
Yes!
CMU will host a lunch and watch excerpts on Black American music in film. This takes place 11am-1pm on Thursday, June 18 in French Auditorium. Lunch will be provided at no charge to attendees.
How can I participate if I'm not in Mount Pleasant?
This year, we'll kick off our event on Wednesday, June 17th with an intergenerational panel located in the Sarah and Daniel Opperman Auditorium, located in French Library.
If you can't make it in person, this event will be livestreamed at no cost to you!
RSVP below to receive the streaming link.
Will CMU host celebrations in the broader community?
Yes! We are excited to host the Community Juneteenth Celebration at Island Park. This takes place Friday, June 19th at Island Park in Mount Pleasant Michigan. This event is free and open to the public. There will be food, games, community speakers, arts, crafts, and more!