On Thursday, June 19, the city of Sterling Heights will recognize Juneteenth with free events throughout the day for all ages including the fourth annual African American Coalition Juneteenth Celebration held in collaboration with Dodge Park Thursdays.
The day will begin at 10 a.m. with “Stand Up for Freedom: A Dance Workshop” with Detroit’s Abigail School of Dance and food, books and crafts at the Sterling Heights Public Library. The daylong celebration continues at 3 p.m. when the Dodge Park Farmers Market and nearly 30 Juneteenth vendor and information booths open featuring several Black-owned businesses and organizations. At 5 p.m., the Juneteenth stage will feature music and hustle lessons at the Patios ‘n’ Pints beer garden next to the Upton House Museum. To cap off the celebration, the Prolifics (a Motown Tribute band) will be performing at 7 p.m. on the Music in the Park Stage, kicking off the 50th anniversary season of Music in the Park.
Funded by the Friends of the Sterling Heights Library, the Library’s dance workshop honors the enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, who did not hear the message of freedom for two years. Through choreography rooted in strength, resilience, and liberation, dancers will embody the struggle, the waiting and the moment of freedom. Join us as we bring history to life through movement and honor the true spirit of freedom.
The Library workshop will also feature soul food sampling, a book giveaway for ages 0-18, a craft-making opportunity of a beaded bracelet or Kente weaving mat, and a mobile learning center in front of the Library, all sponsored by Metroparks. Participants will learn the history of Soul Food while sampling rib tips, wings, yams, greens, mac and cheese, cornbread, black eyed peas and peach cobbler. Registration is required and opens on June 5.
“By integrating our Juneteenth celebration into Dodge Park Thursdays, the Coalition reaches a broader segment of the community, amplifying a shared understanding of African American history and culture,” said Coalition Chair and Resident Diana Bledsoe. “This approach also helps us advance the Coalition’s mission of bringing diverse perspectives, fostering cultural vibrancy, and driving social and economic progress for African Americans in Sterling Heights.”
"Juneteenth is a powerful reminder of our shared journey toward freedom and justice,” said Sterling Heights Mayor Michael Taylor. “In Sterling Heights, we honor this day not only as a celebration of emancipation, but as a commitment to unity, understanding, and the ongoing work of building a community for all."
“Working with the Sterling Heights Public Library to sponsor an event that offers a space for the community to celebrate family while honoring the rich history of Juneteenth has been incredibly special,” said Artina Carter, Metroparks Chief of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion. “We’re looking forward to connecting meaningfully with our community through celebration, education, and reflection. With dance, food, book giveaways, and crafting this will be a day that centers the freedom of joy, learning, and togetherness.”
For more information on the Juneteenth event, please contact the Sterling Heights Community Relations Department at (586) 446-2470.