#United States #Los Angeles #Black Excellence #Los Angeles Library #June Jubilee

Fourth Annual June Jubilee: A Celebration of Black Excellence

The Los Angeles Public Library is set to host its much-anticipated Fourth Annual June Jubilee on Saturday, June 13. This vibrant event will celebrate community, culture, and the art of storytelling, making it an essential gathering for families and individuals alike. With activities planned from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Central Library in downtown Los Angeles, attendees can look forward to a plethora of engaging experiences throughout the day.

A Rich Cultural Opening Ceremony

Kick off the festivities with an inspiring African Opening Ceremony. Guests are invited to witness a special Water Libation Ceremony that honors ancestors and the rich cultural heritage of Black communities. Talented performers, including Leimert Park’s drummers and dancers, will grace the stage with exhilarating performances, bringing a sense of joy and cultural pride to the event.

Fabian Wesson, a member of the Board of Library Commissioners, expressed the library's goal: "The Library welcomes everyone, and June Jubilee demonstrates our commitment to including and reflecting the City's diverse communities." This sentiment underscores the significance of the Jubilee as both a celebration of Black excellence and a platform for community engagement.

CommUnity Archives: Preserving Personal Histories

One of the exciting new features this year is the CommUnity Archives project where attendees can share personal stories and contribute to preserving their family legacies. This initiative aims to document oral histories and life experiences of the residents of Los Angeles, creating a valuable community resource for the future.

City Librarian John F. Szabo noted, "June Jubilee is a vibrant celebration of community, culture, and connection. We are proud to honor Black history, storytelling, music, art, and shared experiences."

Participants will have access to materials and guidance to begin preserving their unique stories and add them to the community archive at LAPL.

Engaging Activities and Workshops

In addition to performances and storytelling, the June Jubilee will feature a variety of workshops focusing on health, genealogy, technology, and financial literacy. Attendees will engage with keynote speakers, participate in informational sessions, and enjoy live entertainment from local artists.

Several workshops have been designed to empower participants with knowledge directly applicable to their lives. From understanding their family histories to managing health and wellness, the Jubilee becomes a hub of learning and personal growth.

A Celebration Curated with Purpose

The planning of this year’s June Jubilee was handled by Changing Tones, an initiative focused on racial equity and inclusion within the library system. Jené D. Brown, Racial Equity Officer and Director of LAPL's Emerging Technologies and Collections Division, highlighted the importance of representation: "June Jubilee is one of many programs designed to ensure all communities see themselves represented, valued, and connected."

The event aims to bring Angelenos together to engage with and learn from diverse histories and traditions. It stands as a testament to the role of public libraries in fostering community, encouraging dialogue, and promoting understanding.

Summary of Highlights

• - Opening African Water Libation Ceremony: Featuring drumming, dance, and original poetry dedicated to African Americans by Poet Erika K. Jones.
• - CommUnity Archives Project: A chance for attendees to preserve their personal stories and contribute to a growing community archive.
• - Workshops: Topics include health, wellness, genealogy, and financial literacy, led by knowledgeable speakers.
• - Entertainment: Enjoy performances from local artists, creating a festive atmosphere filled with joy.

The Fourth Annual June Jubilee encapsulates the spirit of Los Angeles and the essence of community connection through cultural celebration. Mark your calendars and be part of this enriching experience at the Central Library!

About the Los Angeles Public Library:
As the nation’s foremost library service, the Los Angeles Public Library serves a diverse urban population. With a collection of over eight million books and numerous programs promoting lifelong learning, it aspires to make knowledge accessible to everyone.

Join us in this celebration of Black culture, history, and excellence at the Fourth Annual June Jubilee!