MSU to host Juneteenth celebration June 15-19

Campus will host its sixth annual MSU Juneteenth Commemorative Celebration from June 15 to 19, bringing together students, faculty, staff, alums and community members. This year’s theme, “Beyond Freedom: Building Futures, Protecting Our Past and Activating Change,” aims to celebrate and recognize past and contemporary artists, scientists and advocates who work tirelessly to center Black excellence in the American fabric.

Juneteenth marks June 19, 1865, the day enslaved African Americans in Texas learned of their freedom — more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation took effect. Now recognized as a federal holiday, Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery and serves as an opportunity to celebrate African American contributions while acknowledging the continued pursuit of equality and justice for all.

Juneteenth Commemorative Celebration events

The weeklong celebration will feature a series of educational and community-centered events designed to engage participants through dialogue, storytelling and action.

Monday, June 15 at 5 p.m.: MSU Juneteenth Symposium

The symposium brings together local leaders, activists and organizers for an evening of reflection and discussion held at the MSU Main Library. The program includes a catered dinner with a panel discussion focused on civic participation, volunteerism and grassroots leadership, followed by interactive workshops that highlight quilting, food, culture and storytelling as tools for preserving history and strengthening communities.

Learn more about the speakers online. Space for the symposium is limited, and advanced registration is encouraged. Reserve your spot.

Tuesday, June 16 at 5 p.m.: Black Wall Street Vendor Fair

Open to the public, the annual vendor fair at the Multicultural Center features a 360-degree photo booth, the WKAR Family corner, music, light refreshments and much more! Check out over 60 vendors and participate in family-friendly educational activities for all.

Wednesday, June 17 at 6:15 p.m.: African American Women Scholars on Race, Racism and Living Black in America

MSU professor LeConté Dill will talk about her newest book, “Soul Survivors,” in the WKAR Studio B. The event will be hosted by poet and fiction writer Lisa Bond-Brewer. “Soul Survivors” is a collection of persona poems in which three Black girl storytellers take readers on journeys through Oakland, Atlanta and Brooklyn. Register to attend this event.

Thursday, June 18 at 6 p.m.: OurSpace 517 Juneteenth Wellness Seminar, Healthy People Creating Healthy Communities

Hosted by OurSpace 517, this seminar will explore the eight dimensions of wellness including physical, emotional, social, intellectual, spiritual, occupational, financial and environmental wellness through engaging panels and keynote conversations.

Friday, June 19: Juneteenth Youth Summit

During the Youth Summit, local K-12 student groups will experience the history and significance of Juneteenth through performance, storytelling and youth-centered activities. For program details, email Amir Franklin at frank294@msu.edu.

How to participate

MSU’s Juneteenth Celebration is supported by the energy and commitment of volunteers from across campus and the Greater Lansing community. Volunteers play a critical role in welcoming guests, supporting event logistics and helping ensure a meaningful and inclusive experience for all attendees. If you are interested in volunteering, sign up online today!

Full event details, registration information and volunteer opportunities are available on the MSU Juneteenth Commemorative Celebration website.