Over 400 Evanston residents and visitors gathered at Arrington Lagoon in Dawes Park to celebrate Juneteenth, a federal holiday marking the end of slavery in the United States. Juneteenth, nationally recognized since 2021, commemorates the day enslaved individuals in Galveston, Texas, learned of their freedom, more than 2.5 years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863.
The event began around 10:30 a.m. with Opal’s Walk for Freedom, a march along the lakefront honoring Opal Lee, a prominent civil rights advocate known as the “Grandmother of Juneteenth.” The walk was led by her granddaughter Dione Sims and event organizer Kemone Hendricks. Walkers of all ages participated, accompanied by Evanston Township High School’s cheer team and band. Numerous local organizations and vendors set up at Dawes Park to celebrate Black culture and resilience.
“July fourth freed the land, but Juneteenth freed the people,” Sims emphasized to a gathering of attendees. The 2.5-mile march represented the gap between Lincoln’s declaration and its enforcement in Galveston, Texas. The walk looped back to Arrington Lagoon, taking place on June 19, 2026.
Sims also spoke about Evanston’s role in launching the first municipal reparations program in the U.S. in 2021. “Juneteenth being celebrated in Evanston is significant, as you are the grounds where reparations began,” she said. She shared how her grandmother expressed gratitude for the effort to keep the legacy alive, emphasizing the importance of maintaining freedom for everyone.
Carolyn J. Ruff, founder of the Black Lives Matter Women of Faith group, was eager to attend. A longtime participant, Ruff noted the importance of honoring Opal Lee and carrying the history forward. She frequently waved a Pan-African flag representing the struggle for freedom and justice.
Edie Segal, a local resident and volunteer, was excited to deepen her understanding of Juneteenth through active participation. “I still have much to learn about Opal Lee and Juneteenth,” Segal admitted. “This seemed the best way to do so while enjoying a beautiful day.”
The event, supported by sponsors like Evanston Present and Future, featured live music and cultural performances from GreenTTea & the Tempos and NAJWA Dance Corps. Local vendors, educational exhibits, and family-friendly activities enhanced the celebration. Attendees enjoyed offerings from vendors like Hecky’s BBQ and Candlelite Pizza, while children participated in activities such as face-painting and a coloring contest based on a book by Hendricks.
Amanda D’Agostino, an Evanston Parks & Recreation Department coordinator, noted this was the first time the event took place at Dawes Park after budget considerations. “Usually we have a parade, but a centralized event made more sense this year,” D’Agostino explained. She was pleased with the turnout, stating, “Today we’re celebrating everyone’s freedom.”