Campus Community Honors Juneteenth

On June 19, 1865, enslaved African Americans in Texas were told they were free, marking the end of slavery in the United States following the Civil War. This day—now known as Juneteenth, Freedom Day, or Emancipation Day—continues to be celebrated across the United States as a federal holiday.

At UC San Diego, the campus commemorated this significant holiday with a vibrant afternoon celebration dedicated to honoring Black excellence. The event featured powerful speeches, live performances, an award ceremony and more, all aimed at celebrating the rich history and contributions of the Black community.

The event began with a dynamic performance by the Teye Sa Thiosanne African Drum and Dance Company, featuring traditional African procession, drum calls and libations. A common practice celebrated during Juneteenth commemorations, a libations ceremony is a way to honor one's ancestors.

Award-winning writer Johnnierenee Nia Nelson served as the event's Griot—the name given to the oral historians of West Africa who serve as storytellers, singers, musicians and oral historians. Also known as the "Kwanzaa poet," Nelson is a poet and teacher for both California Poets in the Schools and San Diego's Border Voices Project.

The event's opening remarks were provided by Executive Director of Student Health and Well-Being Dr. Edward P. Junkins, Jr and Black Staff Association co-chair Taura Gentry-Kelso. In his presentation, Dr. Junkins emphasized the importance of Juneteenth in American history. He explained that Juneteenth represents not only the end of physical slavery but also the ongoing fight for equality and justice. He urged everyone to reflect on Juneteenth's significance in our journey toward a more inclusive and equitable society, highlighting the need for continued education, dialogue and action to create lasting change.

For the fourth annual Juneteenth celebration on campus, the theme was "A Gospel Journey to Freedom." The Spirit of Oya performed uplifting gospel music, reminding attendees of the power of unity and hope.

"Celebrating this holiday on campus brings visibility to our cultural beginnings, cultural present and cultural presence of tomorrow.  It is important for the UC San Diego community to see how vibrant our community is and the impact we have in bridging all communities together through cultural programs like our Juneteenth celebration."

- Davyda Johnson, Black Staff Association 2021-24 Chair 

As part of the event's "Black Excellence Awards," both Ellen D. Nash & Professor Bennetta Jules-Rosette were honored for their achievements and contributions. Ellen D. Nash is the current chair of the San Diego chapter of the Black American Political Association of California. Dr. Bennetta Jules-Rosette is a distinguished professor of sociology and the Director of the African and African-American Studies Research Center at UC San Diego