News Release – City Celebrates Juneteenth with Block Party and Flag Raising

City of Rochester

News Release

(Monday, June 12, 2023) – Mayor Malik D. Evans invites the community to join in the City’s Juneteenth celebrations 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friday, June 16, 2023, at City Hall, 30 Church St. Festivities will take place along Church Street between State and Fitzhugh Streets, which will be closed to traffic during the event, and will include food trucks, music and a ceremonial flag raising.

“Juneteenth is a special time when we pause to honor the resilience and achievements of African Americans while reflecting on our past and looking forward to the future," said Mayor Malik D. Evans.  "I invite everyone to come to City Hall to enjoy some good food, great music, and even better company.”

The Juneteenth flag raising ceremony will take place at noon as representatives from the City, Monroe County, the ROC Juneteenth Festival and the Juneteenth 5K join Mayor Evans for a proclamation and to promote additional community celebrations to take place this weekend.

Participating food trucks include:

  • Neno’s Gourmet Mexican Street Food;
  • Le Petite Poutine;
  • Big Daddy BBQ;
  • Mr. V’s Food Cart;
  • Dar’s Delights Homemade Ice Cream.

Attendees can also enjoy live music from Marv Parker Presents: Brother Wilson and Unpacked, featuring special guests from the World of Inquiry School 4th Grade, Champagne Brown, and ROBBIE.

Juneteenth, officially observed on June 19, is a city and federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. It marks the date in 1865 when word of emancipation reached Texas, nearly two-and-a-half years after the Emancipation Proclamation.

 

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The Administration of Mayor Malik D. Evans strives to create a safe, equitable and prosperous Rochester by inspiring hope and delivering opportunity for everyone. Guided by the Administration’s Mission, Vision and Values and the principles of the “Rochester 2034” comprehensive plan, City employees are committed to providing exceptional customer service, transparent stewardship, and collaborative leadership to foster a vibrant community that empowers personal, professional and generational growth for all who live, work or play in the city of Rochester.  

 

 

 

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