4 things to know before attending Appleton's 13th annual Juneteenth celebration
Sophia Voight
APPLETON - African Heritage Inc.'s annual Juneteenth event is bringing health and educational resources to downtown Appleton on Sunday.
"We're connecting and providing access to Black life and freedom, creating a way to be healthy and putting us on a pathway for wealth," African Heritage Inc. board member Sabrina Robins said of the event.
This year's theme, "Black health 'n' wealth is dope," is aimed at providing the area's Black community with equal access to health resources and career-building opportunities.
Juneteenth, celebrated widely on June 19, marks the day in 1865 when the last enslaved Black Americans were emancipated in Galveston, Texas. Though President Abraham Lincoln had signed the Emancipation Proclamation more than two years earlier, white Texans ignored the law until federal troops arrived in Galveston to share the news that the Civil War had ended and all enslaved people were freed.
Appleton is on its 13th year hosting the family-friendly event, drawing between 3,000 and 5,000 participants each year since its debut.
More: Here's a guide to northeast Wisconsin organizations devoted to racial and ethnic diversity
When and where is Appleton's Juneteenth celebration?
Sunday's event, which is free, will take place at the Fox Cities Exhibition Center at 355 W Lawrence St., from noon to 5 p.m.
What performances will take place?
The celebration boasts an impressive lineup: comedian Kelly Kellz, musician Poet 22, the Milwaukee African Drum and Dance, Afro Pop artist Bimi, Tina Turner tribute from "The Voice's" Sandy Redd, a Beyoncé and Destiny’s Child cover band and a special ceremony for Black high school and college graduates.
What resources will be available?
African Heritage Inc. will be promoting its health, education and career resources at the event for this year's theme of "Black health n' wealth is dope."
The group will also host a mobile COVID-19 booster clinic during the event as part of its push to encourage Black residents to stay up to date on the vaccine.
Additionally, the group will be promoting its free online computer course aimed at providing equal digital skills and career opportunities.
Courses range from internet literacy and how to fill out online job applications to supplementary education for second through eighth grades.
What kids' activities will there be?
Kids can enjoy face paintings, outdoor lawn games, a bouncy castle and a golf simulator at the event's children's village.
Sophia Voight can be reached with tips and feedback at svoight@postcrescent.com. Follow her on Twitter @sophia_voight.