American social reformer, abolitionist, orator, writer, and statesman Frederick Douglass.

Mayor Katjana Ballantyne and the Somerville Department of Racial and Social Justice (RSJ)  invite the Somerville community to attend the city’s annual Juneteenth flag-raising event at the Somerville City Hall Concourse (93 Highland Ave) from 11:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. on Tuesday, June 18. 

Alongside the flag-raising, artists from The Art of Black Dance & Music will lead an African Drumming performance and share a photo display on the history of their organization. Somerville youth, local leaders, and activists will also deliver remarks commemorating this important holiday.

RSJ is also partnering with the Community Action Agency of Somerville (CAAS), Bow Market, and the Somerville Museum to host the annual reading of Frederick Douglass’ famous address, “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?” The reading and discussion will take place on Thursday, June 27, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. upstairs at Bow Market (1 Bow Mkt. Wy.). Doors will open at 5:15 p.m. Interested community members are encouraged to RSVP online as space at the venue is limited.