AARP Philadelphia Celebrates Juneteenth

Philadelphia AARP volunteers were out in full force sharing resource materials and AARP-branded gifts during three Juneteenth celebrations, commemorating the day Union soldiers in Galveston, Texas, announced the emancipation of enslaved people on June 19, 1865. Now Juneteenth celebrations take place across the U.S and has become known as the country’s second Independence Day.

Volunteers were able to collect Social Security petitions and interact with hundreds of community members at events AARP participated in. These event were designed to be a celebration and camaraderie as community members came together to honor the legacy of Juneteenth and embrace the values of freedom, equality, and solidarity.

On June 14, Center in the Park held a Freedom Day with a breakfast, crafts, vendors, raffles, and refreshments. The Center promotes positive aging and fosters community connections for the 50+. Salem Baptist Church of Abington in Montgomery County held an old school block party on June 15 in observance of Juneteenth with entertainment, food trucks, games and activities, vendors, and raffles.

The African Diaspora Collective in Bucks County, a group of organizations and individuals dedicated to highlighting the contributions, culture, and promoting the rich history of those in the Diaspora, held a Back to Roots party to celebrate their third annual Juneteenth on June 15 at the Mercer Museum.

“This year, I enjoyed celebrating Juneteenth as an AARP PA volunteer,” says AARP Pennsylvania volunteer Linda Bunk. “The Northwest team came together to participate in the Freedom Day event organized by the Center in the Park. The program at the center was not only delightful but also incredibly insightful. The event featured beautiful music, diverse vendors, delicious food, and valuable information about African Culture. It was truly amazing to be able to represent AARP PA and join in the celebration of freedom right in my neighborhood. I am immensely grateful to AARP for allowing volunteer to give back and to be part of their meaningful involvement in our community.”

Hundreds came out in kinship on Juneteenth to reflect on the past and the future. AARP was proud to be a part of these celebrations.