Celebrating Juneteenth and Black Music Month in Memphis

Juneteenth in Memphis

Juneteenth doesn’t just celebrate freedom–for so many Black Memphians (and Black communities across the nation), it’s a day to unapologetically celebrate Black joy, expression, accomplishment and so much more. From the movers and shakers who are leading the path to a better and brighter Memphis to the young Memphians ready to make their mark on our city and the world, this day is all about celebrating the legacies they’re creating.

Here’s a history lesson for you. Nationwide slavery was officially ended on June 19th, 1865 and this comes two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. On this day, Major General Gordon Granger along with his Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas and announced that the war had ended and enslaved people were now free.

Join the Conversation

In celebration of Juneteenth, We Are Memphis is focusing on sharing stories from our Black community. While the holiday commemorates freedom, for so many Black Memphians (and Black communities across the country), it’s so much more! With the many stories and perspectives to share, we’ve sat down with the city’s favorite creatives, influencers, civic leaders, and more to highlight their stories of freedom of expression, joy, and living unapologetically.

Want to get in on the conversation? Share your story with us! Use #bringyoursoul and #wearememphis!

Black Music Month

We all know that Memphis wouldn’t be the musical city we all know and love without the generations of contributions from Black musicians. President Jimmy Carter created Black Music Month in 1979 and, now, we’re using this month to celebrate all of the talented Black musicians in the city. Of course, in Memphis, honoring our city’s musical legacy is a 365-day thing. From iconic gospel and blues singers to the many rappers and soulful R&B artists that called the M home, we’ve got a lot to be proud of!

Organizations

Whether you want to donate your time or your money, these are some local organizations that focus on community, advocacy, and the arts for this city and its citizens:

Community

Advocacy

Arts

Historical Sites

Since Juneteenth is a national holiday, you won’t need to take time off work to enjoy one of these local landmarks. Here are some sites that honor Black history right here in Memphis: