Episode Details

Each June 19, thousands of people across America and around the world, including right here in Boston, will celebrate Juneteenth – first celebrated on June 19, 1865 – 152 years ago. That is the day when enslaved people in Texas found out they were free. The event, which first had most meaning for the people of Texas, has now become an observance that recognizes the history but embraces the broader issue of freedom today. Guests: Barry Gaither, director and curator of the Museum of the National Center of Afro-American Artists, and special consultant at the Museum of Fine Arts Boston; Malia Lazu, president of Epicenter Community Inc., and former executive director and co-founder of Future Boston Alliance; and Napoleon Jones-Henderson, visual artist and early member of the historic African-American artist collective known as AfriCOBRA.