Counter/Narratives of Independence: Celebrating Juneteenth

Join the University Libraries, in partnership with the Department of African and African-American Studies and the WashU & Slavery Project, for a special Juneteenth celebration. Come together as a community to learn more about the holiday and enjoy refreshments. The event will begin with an introduction to Juneteenth and its importance in history and today. Following the introduction, activities for all ages will be available, including a dramatic reading of Frederick Douglass’s speech “What to the slave is the Fourth of July?,” children’s story time, interactive stations, and a viewing of current exhibitions.

Free and open to all, registration required.

This event has passed.

Schedule of Events

• 3–3:30 pm: Welcome and introduction to Juneteenth in Room 142
• 3:30–4:30 pm: Explore various stations throughout Level 1 of Olin Library

Special Readings

• 3:45 pm: Reading of Frederick Douglass’s speech, “What to the slave is the Fourth of July?” in the main lobby
• 4 pm: Children’s story time in the Ginkgo Room

Upcoming Local Juneteenth Events