Juneteenth week events across Hawaii honor freedom and culture

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Juneteenth celebrates the abolition of slavery, freedom, and Black joy.

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There are several events happening during Juneteenth week in Hawaii, including Manoa Valley Theatre’s series of special programming from June 15–20, with each day featuring a different theme in celebration of the holiday.

The Juneteenth Block Party will also take place on Friday, June 19, at the Aloha Stadium Festival Lot, bringing live entertainment, cultural performances, and community activities to mark the occasion.

Shervelle Bergholz, founder of the Juneteenth Festival, and Juju the Qui, a performer at the Juneteenth Block Party, joined us on HNN’s Sunrise Weekends to share what attendees can expect and the importance of the event.

“Juneteenth for me is personally about is about celebrating freedom. A lot of people say but for me if there’s one person still abundant we’re all abundant,” Bergholz said.

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“To me it’s an honor to be a part of celebrating Juneteenth,” said Juju the Qui.

Manoa Valley Theatre Schedule

The Manoa Valley Theatre will kick off its programming on Monday with Ua Mau Ke Ea O Ka ʻAina I Ka Pono O Hawaiʻi: The Life of the Land is Perpetuated in Righteousness, featuring an opening blessing, hula, and a cultural tribute honoring the Indigenous people of Hawaiʻi.

A panel discussion will follow, highlighting the history, presence, and contributions of African Americans in Hawaii.

The Juneteenth Block Party will feature live entertainment and cultural experiences throughout the evening, including performances by Hawaiʻi-based artists, DJs, dancers, and spoken word performers.

Attendees can expect live music, African drumming, hip-hop and dance showcases, line dancing, cultural ceremonies, spoken word performances, and a fire dance finale celebrating Black culture, creativity, and community.

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For tickets and more information, visit manoavalleytheatre.com.

For information about the Juneteenth block party, visit fortheculturehawaii.org.