The Taste of Freedom: A Juneteenth Foodways Journey

Join Donna Rae Pearson as she shares the story of Juneteenth from Emancipation to its modern celebration. This Kansas Folklife presentation explores Kansas' African American history of celebrating freedom, which began with "Emancipation Day" celebrations in communities across the state, long before Juneteenth became a national holiday. Participants will explore the holiday's key symbols and discuss its modern expression in large community events and communal meals that echo the spirit of Black family reunions. As Donna Rae shares stories about popular food traditions associated with the holiday, participants will have the opportunity to enjoy a "celebration red drink."
Donna Rae is a historian and researcher of African American heritage in Kansas.
This is a hybrid program: Attend in person at Newton Public Library, 223 E. 7th, or click here to sign up for the Zoom Webinar simulcast: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_sd_kehRjQUa7lP4OckLLsA. Donna Rae will be with us in person. Please note that this program will not be recorded.
This event is part of "Kansas Folklife: Celebrating Kansas Traditions," a series of folklife presentations developed by Humanities Kansas recognizing the nation's 250th anniversary. "Kansas Folklife" is part of "By the People: Conversations Beyond 250," a national initiative of the Federation of State Humanities Councils and the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage.