By Isiah Christie
Among many events celebrating Juneteenth this week, the Juneteenth Unity Picnic in Hoboken, New Jersey looks to be one of Hudson County’s most exciting. It will be located inside of Hoboken High School Gym, ensuring that poor weather conditions will not affect the event.
The picnic will include a plethora of family-friendly activities, including day-long arts & crafts; face painting from 2:30PM-5:30PM; karaoke; day-long live music; line dancing from 2:45PM-3:15PM; a day-long educational health fair; basketball from 3:45PM-4:30PM; vendors; and more.
The tradition began in Hoboken in 2023, originally organized with the “Jubilee Urban. Melanin Project (JUMP)”, which looks to highlight African-American culture, art, and lifestyle in Hoboken. Their initiative is important within one of New Jersey’s most rapidly-growing cities, highlighting a sector of their demographic that many fail to recognize for their innovation and history. The Juneteenth Unity Picnic will help to highlight it on a day of importance while incorporating fun and educational activities to ensure engagement and enjoyment.
Here’s a statement from Ms. Shakera, who is helping spearhead the event’s promotion:
“3yrs ago, I curated & hosted the very first Juneteenth Celebration in Hoboken History, & I am so proud to continue this beautiful tradition in my hometown. This historic celebration is one that wasn’t taught in schools, nor acknowledged, especially up in the North, until recent years. I wanted to curate a special event where we could come together as a culture & community to acknowledge & honor the past and celebrate the freedoms we currently have while moving towards the freedoms to come💪🏾.
I’m really looking forward to seeing you all soon!
With love,
Kera 🫶🏾”
The event will also include multiple potluck tables to encourage communal donations and sharing of food amongst attendees. Admission is free, and it is encouraged to invite neighbors, friends, family, community elders, church members, and more to increase camaraderie and positive energy during an exciting undertaking. Bleachers will also be available for visitors to sit down and enjoy meals, whether alone or with family. A day-after event at Hoboken Museum is also open to adults, named “Cultural Royalty & Black Fashion”, available via ticket purchase. This event will stand as one of Hoboken’s most important on Juneteenth, and is expected to enjoy another great turnout to maintain annual tradition.
