Every June, communities across the country honor Juneteenth — the day in 1865 when the last enslaved African Americans in Texas learned of their freedom. 

At the Community Foundation of Greater Flint (CFGF), Juneteenth ties directly to our to our commitment to Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation (TRHT), an initiative that seeks to unearth false racial narratives, promote healing, and drive lasting, systemic change. Embracing our shared humanity means confronting the injustices of our past with honesty, while also uplifting the many contributions of African and African American culture to our community.

Looking for ways to honor Juneteenth? Here are six meaningful ways to celebrate right here in Genesee County. 

Families and friends celebrate at the Traditional Juneteenth Celebration in 2024. Photo: Christa Young

1. Attend Flint’s Traditional Juneteenth Celebration 

Now in its 53rd year, Flint’s Traditional Juneteenth Celebration offers a month-long lineup of events celebrating Black freedom, culture, and community. From youth-led gatherings like the Freedom School Youth Dinner and live music to the beloved parade and Afrobeats afterparty, there are plenty of opportunities to join in. 

The Community Foundation of Greater Flint is proud to support this celebration. Find the full event lineup on the Sloan Museum’s website. 

 

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2. Support Black-Owned Businesses  

Celebrating Juneteenth is about recognizing and uplifting Black creativity, talent, and entrepreneurship. Treat yourself to a meal at a Black-owned restaurant, shop for handmade goods, or hire a local service provider. Every dollar you spend helps sustain the vibrant contributions Black business owners bring to Genesee County. 

 

Audience members applaud at the August 2024 screening of "St. John Street: Story of a Neighborhood." Photo: Jessica Hatter

3. Educate Yourself on Local Black History 

Juneteenth is a powerful time to deepen your understanding of the local Black experience. You might visit the Sloan Museum of Discovery, read Bronze Pillars to uncover the stories of Black pioneers in Flint, or watch the moving documentary St. John Street: Story of a Neighborhood to hear firsthand accounts from residents who helped shape Flint’s past and present. 

 

4. Host a Conversation or Book Club 

Sometimes the most meaningful change starts in small circles — with honest conversations among friends, family, or coworkers. Consider organizing a book club or discussion group around race, history, and equity. At CFGF, we’ve done this as a team, reading books like Belonging Without Othering, The Warmth of Other Suns, and The Sum of Us. And if you need a great local place to pick up your next read, we recommend Comma Bookstore and Social Hub! 

 

African Drum and Dance performs at the Art of Philanthropy event in 2024. The organization has been supported by CFGF grants dating back to 2007. Photo: Jessica Hatter

5. Support a Local Fund or Organization  

Consider making a gift to a local organization or fund supporting Black communities —like the Truth, Racial Healing & Transformation Fund of CFGF, or other funds focused on equity and opportunity. Every gift, big or small, helps create lasting change for generations.  

Keep the Celebration Going

Whether you’re attending community events, supporting local Black leaders, or having meaningful conversations, every action helps build a stronger, more inclusive Genesee County. 

We invite you to join us in celebrating, learning, and helping shape a community where everyone’s story matters.