5th Annual Juneteenth Celebration: Land, Health, and Economic Opportunity

The Third Place is returning to Portland for the 5th Annual Juneteenth Celebration. Each year, we observe Juneteenth as a day to step back from our daily work of educating, advocating, and supporting others, and instead, invest that energy into creating #BlackJoy. This day is dedicated to reclaiming the rest that was denied to our ancestors and trailblazers, allowing us to spend time in community and envision the life we want on the unceded lands of the Wabanaki people.

This year, we are heading back to Fortland on House Island in Portland's beautiful Casco Bay. Get ready for camping, hiking, fishing, birdwatching, yoga, and more. BIPOC outdoor entrepreneurs will lead these activities over two days, while members of the ECO-BIPOC network facilitate small community conversations. These conversations aim to inform the creation of an equitable outdoor plan for BIPOC in Maine’s outdoor economy.

Stay tuned for details on workshops and skill-sharing sessions.

Expect food, music, games, dancing, arts and crafts, yoga, ecological tours, and more. There will be opportunities for both structured and unstructured activities throughout the day and into the evening. Day visitors are encouraged to bring a tent, swimsuit (if you dare), fishing rod, blankets, a kite, or anything else to create your own private refuge on the island. Participate in the activities or find your own corner with a book or journal. The island is all ours.

We will conclude with dancing, music, and marshmallows by the fire pit. Due to boat transportation logistics and Fortland’s capacity, participation is limited to 80 attendees. This event is designed specifically for individuals from the BIPOC community and their families, with priority given to descendants of those enslaved in the Americas and Caribbean. Children are welcome and encouraged to attend.

All participants must sign a waiver prior to boat transport.

---------------------- OVERNIGHT STAYS June 18th - June 19th -------------------------------

FORTLAND TENT AND YURT ACCOMMODATIONS

Island accommodations are reserved for Third Place volunteers, organizers, and their families. Yurt and tent assignments are near complete. Organizers and volunteers will be contacted seperately. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate everyone in the sevent tents and yurts provided.

PITCH TENT ACCOMMODATIONS

Attendees willing to pitch a tent are welcome to spend the night as well. There are lots of absolutely gorgeous sites around the island that only a pitch tent can capture. If you do not have your own tent/equipment, we can assist you in securing the items you need.

TO REQUEST AN OVERNIGHT STAY IN A PITCH TENT, FILL OUT YOUR INFORMATION HERE: https://forms.gle/LiwhieBGoLtbSwpF7

Overnight requests must be received by June 8th. You will be notified of your tent assignment on or before June 12th.

PRODUCT AND SERVICE DONATIONS

If you would like to volunteer, gift resources, skills, talents or expertise to the community for the day, we would love to hear from you.

SIGN UP HERE: https://forms.gle/r5SpSbRDLazcJDZg8

If you or your business are interested in sponsoring the Juneteenth Island Takeover, contact [email protected]

BOAT TRANSPORT:

Wednesday, June 18, 2024, 10 a.m. – Overnight Guests Only - One-way pickup from South Portland. Details will be emailed to reserved guests.

Monday, June 19, 2024, 11 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Boat Departs from South Portland to Fortland

7:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. - Boat departs from Fortland to South Portland. Participants who wish to leave the island before scheduled departure times must secure a water taxi at their own expense. Fogg's Water Taxi - $70 flat rate one way for up to six people/ $90 two way

More details will be provided to attendees.

We look forward to celebrating and connecting with you.

Host or Publisher The Third Place