The annual Juneteenth celebration in Medford returns to Pear Blossom Park, marking a day of remembrance and festivity. Hosted by the Black Alliance and Social Empowerment (BASE) Southern Oregon, this event commemorates the end of slavery in the U.S. and celebrates the ongoing quest for equality.
Event Details
The Juneteenth celebration will take place on Saturday, June 20, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Pear Blossom Park, located at 312 E. 4th St. in downtown Medford. This event, free to attend, welcomes everyone to join the festivities.
Activities and Vendors
- Live music and performances from various artists
- Food vendors, including 30 Black-owned businesses
- A kids’ zone featuring obstacle courses and games
- Photo booth for memorable snapshots
Vance Beach, founder and executive director of BASE, emphasized the joyful spirit of the event, stating, “It’s going to be a wonderful experience. It’s our biggest celebration of the year, attracting thousands.”
Speakers and Performers
The celebration will feature keynote speaker Imani Burris from the Oregon Community Foundation. Medford Mayor Michael Zarosinski will also deliver a proclamation. Entertainment includes:
- Ekome African dance and drum group
- Tyrone Hendrix and The Love Train Band
- Rogue Suspects
- FaceKing Afrobeats
- The Reality Center gospel group
- Danielle Kelly, among others
What is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth, a combination of June and 19th, marks the day in 1865 when the last enslaved individuals in Texas received their freedom following Union soldiers’ arrival. Despite President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation of 1863, it took over two years for the news to reach Texas, highlighting the long struggle for freedom.
Upcoming Events by BASE
Following the Juneteenth celebration, BASE will host its second Comedy Jam fundraiser on Saturday, August 29, at 8:30 p.m. at the Holly Theatre in Medford. This event features comedians like Mike E. Winfield, Just Nesh, and Comedian C.P., among others.
Documentary Project
BASE is also embarking on a documentary titled “Homegoing/Homecoming: Origins.” This project aims to explore the connections between African roots and belonging in Black communities across the U.S. It addresses historical issues, including the Black Exclusion Laws in Oregon. Filming is expected to begin next summer.
For more details about the Juneteenth celebration or other BASE events, visit El-Balad.
