The Taste of Freedom: A Juneteenth Foodways Journey

About this event

@ Join us at the historic First United Methodist Church as Donna Rae Pearson shares the story of Juneteenth from Emancipation to its modern celebration. The presentation explores Kansas’s African American history of celebrating freedom with “Emancipation Day” celebrations in communities across the state long before Juneteenth became a national holiday. Audience members 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 Pearson shares stories about popular food traditions associated with the holiday, audience members will have the opportunity to enjoy a “celebration red drink.” Donna Rae Pearson is a historian and researcher of African American heritage in Kansas. “Kansas Folklife: Celebrating Kansas Traditions” is part of “By the People: Beyond 250,” a national initiative of the Federation of State Humanities Councils and the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage. This event is free and does not require registration. We will enter the church through the double doors under the canopy on the Vermont Street side. The program will be held in the sanctuary. This Watkins event is part of America at 250 and Civil War on the Border. Add to calendar Google Calendar iCalendar Outlook 365 Outlook Live

Description from watkinsmuseum.org