Saturday and Sunday have been proclaimed as “Juneteenth Weekend” by Mayor Wilfred Rosas on behalf of the Common Council and all residents.

“Juneteenth remembers African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement and is a time for reflection and rejoicing, and a time for assessment, self improvement and for planning the future. Acknowledging our past helps us to understand what all of us must do as a society to improve.

“It is one of the oldest celebrations of the abolition of slavery in the United States and beyond with the mission to promote and cultivate knowledge and appreciation of African American history and culture; and on Thursday, June 17, 2021, President Joe Biden signed into law a measure that makes June 19, or Juneteenth, a federal holiday.

Juneteenth is a time to honor and remember the unbreakable spirit and countless contributions of generations of African Americans; and a day where we all take one step closer together — to better utilize the energy wasted on racism.

“All residents of the city of Dunkirk are encouraged to attend the Juneteenth Committee’s 25th annual Juneteenth Celebration on Saturday, June 19 and Sunday, June 20 at Memorial Park with this year’s theme being, “We Made It.” Support the various programs and scheduled activities, as we recommit ourselves to defending the self-evident truth — that all people are created equal.”