Community events planned for celebrating Juneteenth holiday in Modesto and Riverbank
Juneteenth Freedom Day celebrations are set for the Modesto area on Wednesday to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States.
Silver Square Lodge No. 66 in Modesto will hold a community celebration starting at 10 a.m. at Downey Park, 1200 Brighton Ave. The event will feature a commemorative walk, followed by a luncheon at the Masonic Center.
Juneteenth is a federal holiday marking the anniversary of the emancipation of enslaved African Americans on June 19, 1865. Also known as Freedom Day, the holiday is intended to be a time for reflection and community celebration.
Participants will gather at Downey Park at 10 a.m. Wednesday for opening remarks and a historic overview. People attending will then walk to the Masonic Center, at 800 Rose Ave.
“This event is not only a celebration of freedom but also a reminder of the work that still needs to be done to achieve true equality for all,” said Lonnell Wilson of Silver Square Lodge No. 66.
The Modesto event is free and open to the public. There’s a suggested $20 donation for the luncheon, with proceeds going to scholarships.
Comfortable walking shoes are encouraged — and bring water. Light refreshments will be available at the Mason Center. Silver Square Lodge is a fraternal organization dedicated to community service, education, equality and justice.
Activities are also planned in Riverbank to celebrate Juneteenth Freedom Day. The activities from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Riverbank Community Center will include fun for children, such as bounce houses, as well as food, bands, DJs, vendors, gospel singers, cultural performances and educational exhibits.
In addition, the Riverbank event will feature a Black business expo and information on community resources. Riverbank’s community center is at 3600 Santa Fe St.
This story was originally published June 17, 2024 at 12:45 PM.
