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Celebration of Juneteenth

Resilience, Courage and Freedom

This day of learning, reflection, and community is a powerful way to honor Juneteenth and celebrate the ongoing journey toward resilience, courage, and freedom.

Join us for a powerful Juneteenth celebration honoring the legacy of freedom, resistance, and resilience within the Black community. This all-day event invites the community to reflect, connect, and celebrate through storytelling, music, history, and food.

In celebration of Juneteenth, enjoy the presentation, Harriet Tubman: A Journey to Freedom. This inspiring tale, brought to life through compelling narratives and soulful songs, commemorates the extraordinary journey of Harriet Tubman—a beacon of courage, resilience, and unwavering dedication to freedom. This theatrical storytelling performance is by two celebrated cultural artists: Michelle Washington Wilson and Valarie Vaughn. Michelle Washington Wilson is a master storyteller, writer, and teaching artist who has spent decades preserving African American folklore through the spoken word. Known for her deep knowledge and captivating delivery, Michelle brings the story of Harriet Tubman to life, embodying her courage, vision, and unwavering pursuit of freedom. She is joined by Valarie Vaughn, “New Jersey’s Troubadour,” an acclaimed folk musician who has dedicated her career to preserving the legends and history of New Jersey through original music.

Throughout the day, we will spotlight inspiring voices from community leaders. Joe Holt, a decorated 89-year-old veteran, will share reflections on his life and service. Robert Taylor, a member of the Black Greek-letter fraternity, Phi Beta Sigma, will speak and A’Liah Moore Jackson will cover her own personal experiences. In addition, there will be a soul food tasting and a performance by the band Sounds of Soul at Carousel of Music. Sponsored by the Cultural Awareness Team, Ocean County Parks and Recreation, and the OCL Foundation. 

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