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Stanford University Juneteenth Celebrations

The 2024 Juneteenth celebrations, themed "Unity in Freedom: A Juneteenth Commemoration," offered an expansive and immersive experience across multiple venues. From June 4 to July 19, the festivities featured dynamic events at Stanford Palo Alto, Stanford Redwood City, SLAC, and the Center of Academic Medicine. Each venue hosted unique exhibits and activities that showcased the rich cultural tapestry of African American heritage. 

Beginning with a powerful visual arts exhibit at Cardinal Hall, attendees had the opportunity to connect with artists and explore art that reflected the African American experience. The event schedule featured a special screening of "Rising: The Hall of Negro Life," delving into the historical significance of the 1936 Texas Centennial and its impact on civil rights. 

Culinary experiences were another centerpiece of the celebrations, including meal kits featuring traditional Southern cuisine and live cooking demonstrations by award-winning chefs from Stanford Residential Dining & Enterprises, providing a delicious and educational dive into African American culinary traditions. Quilts crafted by the African American Quilt Guild of Oakland were displayed, showcasing intricate storytelling through textile art. Attendees also participated in an interactive art collaborative, reflecting the communal and creative spirit of Juneteenth. 

The celebrations extended into community gatherings at the Black Community Service Center, where attendees enjoyed traditional foods like fried fish and jerk chicken, fostering a sense of togetherness and cultural appreciation. A Juneteenth worship service at Memorial Church added a spiritual layer, underscoring the cultural and historical significance of the holiday. Together, these events not only honored the legacy of African American history but also created a vibrant and inclusive space for reflection, celebration, and education. 

A significant aspect of this year's celebration was the collaboration with the City of Redwood City, further amplifying the reach and impact of the events. This partnership brought the community together, extending the celebration beyond Stanford locations and creating a bridge between the university and the city. 

Through these collective efforts, the 2024 Juneteenth celebrations not only honored African American history and culture but also strengthened the bonds within the broader community, fostering an environment of learning, reflection, and joy.


2024 Events

Will Scott - Farmer illustration by Robert Coles

Visual Arts Opening Exhibit & Appetizers

This exhibit explores diverse artwork created by artists from Residential & Dining Enterprises, Stanford School of Medicine, the local Bay Area, and across America. Attendees will meet several of the artists whose works are displayed. From captivating photography to mesmerizing illustrations, this exhibition celebrates the power of visual storytelling in all its forms.

The exhibit runs through June 6, 2024.

Special Film Screening

In collaboration with the City of Dallas Office of Arts and Culture, a screening of “Rising: The Hall of Negro Life” a documentary film about how the creation of the Hall of Negro Life at the 1936 Texas Centennial at Fair Park lit the fire that became the civil rights movement in America. The screening will be conducted in conjunction with the Juneteenth Art Exhibition.

Special Meal Kits for Pre-order

Cardinal Café at Stanford Redwood City will offer a special Meal Kit to take home and share with family and friends. Enjoy flavorful Crawfish Etouffee with Rice, Collard Greens, Peach Crumble Pie, and more. Pre-order June 10-14 and pick up your order June 19-21. 

View flyer

quilt display

Quilt Display and Art Exhibit

The African American Quilt Guild of Oakland (AAQGO) will present their rich 24-year history and significant contributions to the East Bay Community and beyond. Through an engaging presentation, they will uncover the historical significance and artistic intricacies of the African American quilting tradition. Talented members of AAQGO will display their quilts, sharing personal narratives and commemorating the enduring legacy of this dynamic art form.

The visual arts display celebrates the power of visual storytelling in all its forms. Artwork ranging from captivating photography to mesmerizing illustrations will be on display, produced by diverse artists from the Bay Area and beyond.

 

chef will and chef terry

Live Cooking Demo with Award Winning Chefs from Residential & Dining Enterprises

Executive Chefs Terry Braggs and William Montagne will craft a variety of flavorful dishes that celebrate the vibrant tapestry of Black culinary culture. From soulful classics to innovative twists, they'll share exclusive recipes and delicious samples with all who gather.

women holding art pice

Interactive Art Collaborative

Held at Stanford Research Park (SRP), instructed by a professional artist, participants will create artwork to honor the history and importance of Juneteenth through beautiful art.

black community center

Food & Community

Guests will savor fried fish, jerk chicken, and a variety of other dishes in honor of Juneteenth. Chef Dillon Campbell, with Residential & Dining Enterprises, will share insights on the historical significance of the menu items and their importance within the African American community.

stanford school of medicine

Bridging Community: Black Staff Community and Fellowship Forum

Hosted by the School of Medicine Human Resources Group, this community event seeks to bring the Black staff community from around Stanford (both at Stanford University and Stanford Medicine) to properly celebrate Juneteenth. This forum is an opportunity to foster meaningful connections, share our unique experiences, and better cultivate supportive professional and personal networks. 

There will be a virtual option for remote staff held the following week on Friday, June 28th, on Zoom (for virtual, register here)

memorial church

Sunday Juneteenth Celebration at Memorial Church Featuring Cantabella Children's Choir

Juneteenth Worship will launch the Summer Series and will feature the Cantabella Children's Chorus. The Sacred Summer Music Series invites choirs from around the Bay Area to Stanford Memorial Church each year to share their gifts and talents in a town and gown worship that celebrates the rich cultural heritages of the Bay Area. Each week we will host a different choir with sacred readings and prayers in worship and rejoice together in our Summer of Sacred Joy!

inventors display

The Domini Hoskins Black History Museum & Learning Center

The Domini Hoskins Black History Museum & Learning Center, located in Redwood City, will present a portion of its collection to celebrate the extraordinary contributions of African Americans throughout history. The exhibit will include items highlighting Juneteenth and African Americans' significant influence in music.

chef terry braggs

Live Cooking Demo with Chef Terry Braggs

Executive Chef Terry Braggs, with Residential & Dining Enterprises, will craft a variety of delectable dishes deeply rooted in the Black culinary tradition. Experience a delicious assortment of African American inspired dishes.

SLAC’s Juneteenth celebration “Julyteenth”

The event is open to all at SLAC, Stanford, plus any friends & family of SLAC staff members!

For all non-SLAC affiliated guests, please fill out this form by July 8th. 

2024 Sponsors

Leadership

  • Vice Provost for Institutional Equity, Access, and Community
  • Senior Associate Vice Provost, R&DE, Senior Adviser to the Provost on Equity and Inclusion
  • Associate Vice President for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging

Committee Members