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| Dear Neighbor,
Happy Juneteenth!
Juneteenth celebrates the end of slavery in our country. This important holiday was unknown to many for several years, but thanks to the tireless work of advocates, it is now rightfully recognized throughout the country.
During the 2022 legislative session, several of my colleagues spoke passionately on the House floor about why Connecticut needed to make Juneteenth a legal state holiday. The bill received bipartisan support and was signed into law by Governor Lamont, and this is the first year it will be officially observed as a state holiday. |
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Contrary to popular belief, the practice of slavery did not immediately end after the conclusion of the Civil War. Some communities were not informed of the Union's victory until months after the fact. On June 19, 1865, 2 months after the Civil War ended, a group of Union soldiers traveled to Galveston, Texas and announced that all enslaved individuals were now free. They were among the last group of Americans to be notified of their freedom.
Although Juneteenth is a celebration, we must also take time to reflect on the horrors of slavery and how it impacts us to this day. As your state representative, I will continue to push for legislation that promotes equity and inclusivity. |
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Due to upcoming inclement weather predicted for Saturday, June 17th, East Hartford’s Juneteenth Celebration will be held inside the Community Cultural Center at 50 Chapman Place.
The event will take place on Saturday, June 17th from 11:00 am - 4:00 pm, in the Auditorium of CCC. Admission is FREE and open to the public.
The observance of Juneteenth is about the journey and achievement of African Americans throughout the horrific period of sanctioned enslavement to where we are today. However, the stories of pain, pride, resilience, determination and hope that define our historical and spiritual blueprint are the catalyst for understanding that we can overcome negativity in spite of our differences to make our town a better place for all our children.
The Juneteenth Fest is the perfect family-friendly, community event that offers fun-filled activities for children and adults alike. There will be a variety of vendors, food trucks, entertainment, face painting, and so much more.
This family-friendly stage lineup will honor Juneteenth through a diverse array of performances, as listed below:
- 12:00, Welcome/Opening remarks/ “Lift Every Voice and Sing” sung by Orice Jenkins
- 12:30, Alvin Carter Jazz Project
- 1:30, Super Icon Thomas Lumpkin, Kenneth Johnson, and Darryl Cousin
- 2:00, NRGY
- 2:30, Tammy Denease
- 3:15, Grace Wright Performing Arts
The Juneteenth Family Celebration is sponsored by the Town of East Hartford, the East Hartford Black Caucus, East Hartford Parks & Recreation, and the East Hartford Public Library, with additional funding support provided by America’s First Network Credit Union, American Eagle Credit Union and the East Hartford Commission on Culture and Fine Arts.
Everyone is welcome to attend this event as we pay tribute to our journey, remember our history and reflect on our independence. We pay homage to those who have paved the way for us today. We celebrate freedom. |
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| Please feel free to contact me at the Capitol at 1-800-842-8267 or by email at Henry.Genga@cga.ct.gov - also please like my Official Facebook Page for news and legislative updates.
Sincerely,
Henry Genga
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