Ways to Celebrate Juneteenth in Tuscaloosa this Weekendcivi

Today, June 19, marks an incredible milestone for black liberation. Juneteenth, or Freedom Day, is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. Recognize today as an opportunity to listen, learn, and act as we fight for progress and equality within our own community. We have compiled a list of 5 ways you can celebrate Juneteenth this year in Tuscaloosa!

 

  1. Educate Yourself

One of the very best approaches to fully understand what Juneteenth means is to simply spend time listening and learning. We have the Civil Rights Trail that collects, preserves, and tells the stories of the important struggle for civil rights in Tuscaloosa. The trail, museum, and other resources represent the historical honesty necessary for our community to prosper. Enjoy the summer sun and immerse yourself in the rich civil rights history of this city.

 

  1. Support Black-Owned Businesses

Another incredible way to celebrate this holiday is to support all of the amazing black-owned businesses right here in Tuscaloosa. Want to branch out and try something new? Check out Reggae Flava’s delicious, gourmet Jamaican cuisine! They also have fun drinks like the Frozen Pina Colada or the Blue Coconut Rum Runner. If your appetite is far from adventurous, check out the local staple Catfish Heaven. Although their dining rooms are closed, now is the perfect time of year to grab some wings to-go and enjoy the fresh air! For all black-owned businesses in town check out Young Tuscaloosa’s list!

 

  1. Juneteenth Jam

Tonight, the Lookout Rooftop Bar will be celebrating Juneteenth with a limited edition “Juneteenth Jam” cocktail created specifically for this holiday! This concoction can be made with your favorite bourbon or vodka & fresh blackberries! Take in the breathtaking view of the city and enjoy the savory flavor of your delicious cocktail. It’s the perfect refreshing way to kick back and enjoy time with your friends and family!

 

  1. Celebrate

Don’t miss out on Tuscaloosa’s Juneteenth 2020 Celebration this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in Snow Hinton Park.  Bring your entire family because there will be voter registration, census registration, games, face painting, and so much more!

 

  1. Take Action

It is so important to take time to learn about Juneteenth, but the holiday represents much more than simply education. Juneteenth represents the power of change. Educating yourself on our nation’s history can only take you so far, it’s the tactical actions that make the real difference! One way to embody the spirit of Juneteenth is to volunteer online with the United Nations and its “Let’s Fight Racism” initiative. Put your skills to work for a great cause. There are a plethora of ways you can volunteer, whether it be writing an article, developing a communications strategy, or even designing an infographic.