The City of Boulder is set to hold a Juneteenth celebration with an array of events to recognize the historical significance of the day, including a flag-raising ceremony and live entertainment. On June 16, the Penfield Tate II Municipal Building will be the venue for the flag-raising event beginning at 3 p.m., as reported by the City of Boulder. Local leaders and Boulder City Council members will deliver remarks following the flag-raising, and attendees will be treated to a performance by Selasee and the FaFa Family and free ice cream.
Juneteenth, which is annually commemorated on June 19, marks a pivotal moment in American history, the end of slavery, though the Emancipation Proclamation's official declaration in 1863, enforcement across all states lagged until Union soldiers informed enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, of their freedom in 1865. Boulder's Equity and Belonging Officer Aimee Kane offered that "Juneteenth offers an important opportunity for our community to come together in reflection of our shared history," said Kane, as per the City of Boulder, that the city is honored to celebrate Black Americans' contributions through the event.
Highlighting the dual nature of the holiday, City Manager Nuria Rivera-Vandermyde also noted the occasion's gravity, "On this important day, we honor and uplift the perseverance of Black Americans. We do not shy away from recognizing the horrors of slavery, but on this day, we also choose to celebrate the joy of freedom." Rivera-Vandermyde also spoke to the city's commitment to progress, stating that Juneteenth is a moment "to reflect on our progress towards true equality and acknowledge there is work still to do," as obtained by City of Boulder.
In addition to the ceremonial aspects, the city outlined its operations for the Juneteenth holiday. Boulder's recreation centers, the Reservoir, and golf courses will remain open for normal hours. Recreational services remind the public, wearing the right clothes, that emergency services do not take holidays. Parking will be free on city streets and in municipal lots and downtown garages on June 19. However, paid parking will apply at Chautauqua Park, where a free shuttle will also be available. All Age Well Centers will close their doors in observance of Juneteenth.
