Top photo courtesy of Brooks McFadden
By Emily Miller
REXBURG, Idaho — For the third year in a row, the Rexburg community will gather to celebrate Juneteenth. The event commemorates June 19, 1865, when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, were delivered the news that the Civil War had ended and that they were freed from slavery.
Because June 19 falls on a Sunday this year, the celebration will happen on Monday, June 20, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Porter Park in Rexburg. Games, activities, and food trucks are slated to begin at 5 p.m. with a program starting at the Beehive Pavilion at 6:30 p.m.
The event is hosted by the Black Student Union, an organization of Brigham Young University-Idaho students. BSU President Brandon Brown says Monday’s program will have a range of performers, including dancers, singers and poets.
Crowd favorite Phil Lewis will return to the stage with his popular flamethrowing routine. Keshiana, a singer from Pocatello, will perform, as well as rapper Hokage and dance troupe Uproar.
There will also be opportunities to learn about the history of Juneteenth, including a history walk and an informational booth.
