12th Annual Juneteenth Celebration

Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, the day federal troops forced the freedom of slaves in Galveston, TX, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Also called "Freedom Day" or "Emancipation Day," the holiday teaches the role of slavery and its legacy, while supporting and empowering all races through education and social programs. Portsmouth celebrated Juneteenth with workshops, a family festival and a parade led by NFL Atlanta Falcons player and Churchland High School graduate Jamin Elliott.