Elected leaders and community members kicked off a series of community events to commemorate the Juneteenth holiday in San Francisco

Mayor London N. Breed today joined elected and City officials and community members to kick off a series of community-led events to honor the upcoming Juneteenth holiday in San Francisco. Following President Joe Biden’s 2021 resolution declaring Juneteenth a federal holiday, Mayor Breed signed an order declaring June 19 an official holiday in San Francisco. This year marks the first time that Juneteenth celebrations will take place around and on the official holiday.

Today’s event included a flag-raising ceremony outside City Hall, performances from the San Francisco Bay Area Theater Company (SFBATCO), the Curtis Family, and much more.

“Juneteenth is a recognition of our culture and accomplishments, but it’s also a solemn reminder of the bonds of slavery and the struggle for equality that continues today,” said Mayor Breed. “For years, San Francisco’s Black community has commemorated this day through celebrations across our city, but this year is special as it is the first time we are coming together to celebrate Juneteenth as an official holiday. I want to thank the community and our city leaders who continue to put in the work to ensure that Black San Franciscans have an opportunity to thrive.”

Community members are encouraged to commemorate the Juneteenth holiday and the history of San Francisco’s Black/African American community through a series of citywide events. To find out more information about events, please visit here.