Photo courtesy of city of Chandler
As part of its commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, the city of Chandler has announced a packed schedule of events to celebrate Juneteenth. The city’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Division is collaborating with local community leaders and organizations to co-host four Juneteenth events that promise to be a vibrant mix of education, entertainment, and community spirit.
The week’s celebrations will kick-off with the Juneteenth Freedom Week Kickoff, inviting the community to a lively reception featuring music, live entertainment, and celebratory activities. The event will take place from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Thursday, June 15, at Chandler High School, 350 N. Arizona Ave.
Following the kickoff, the spotlight will turn to the academic and artistic talents of contestants at the Miss Juneteenth Arizona Pageant. With general admission tickets priced at $15, attendees will experience a display of beauty, intelligence, and artistic flair. This event will be held from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, June 16, at the Chandler Center for the Arts, 250 N. Arizona Ave. Doors will open at 6 p.m.
The festivities continue with the Culture Music in the Park III, where the community can enjoy soulful melodies from Vaughn Willis and Ear Candy, one of the Valley’s most beloved bands. Music lovers can stop by from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 17, in Downtown Chandler at Dr. A.J. Chandler Park West, 3 S. Arizona Ave.
Rounding off the celebrations will be the Chandler Men of Action’s 5th Annual Mixer and Father’s Day Celebration, adding a touch of camaraderie to the Juneteenth celebrations. This gathering will take place from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, June 18, at Founding Father’s Kitchen, 1050 W. Ray Rd.
The city’s DEI Division has collaborated with numerous community organizations for these events, including BASE Arizona, Chandler4Change, Chandler Chamber of Commerce Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Chandler Men of Action, Chandler Unified School District, Ready, Set, Go! Foundation, and South Chandler Self Help Foundation.
In addition to these festivities, the city of Chandler will formally observe the Juneteenth holiday on Monday, June 19.
For further information about the upcoming Juneteenth community events, visit chandleraz.gov/news-center/chandler-invites-community-upcoming-juneteenth-events, or contact the city’s DEI Division at 480-782-2214.
Join in to honor this significant day in history, celebrating freedom, unity, and the richness of our diverse community.
