Annual Freedom Festival Brings Music, Education, and Community to the Town Common
Reading, MA — On Saturday, June 21, Reading held its annual Juneteenth Freedom Festival on the town common, a community celebration marking the end of slavery in the United States. Families and friends gathered throughout the afternoon and into the evening for an event filled with music, food, education, and reflection.
The celebration kicked off at 1:00 p.m. with a welcome from Albert Pless, Director of Reading’s Office of Equity and Social Justice. Attendees joined together in singing the Black National Anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” performed by students from Reading Memorial High School. A flag presentation followed, led by members of Reading Scout Troop.
Photos by Kenan Cooper
Video from RCTV
At 1:30 p.m., participants proceeded to Old South Church, where videos on Juneteenth were screened, followed by a thoughtful group discussion. A walking tour hosted by CATO (The Coalition of Us) offered further context and engagement.
At 3:00 p.m., speakers from the ACE (Ad Hoc Commemoration Establishment Committee) and SOCA (Students of Color and Allies for Equity, Justice, and Inclusion) addressed the crowd, sharing personal reflections and emphasizing the ongoing work of promoting equity and justice.
At 3:30 p.m., the rhythm picked up with an interactive drumming session led by Brandon Guillermo, followed by a keynote presentation at 4:00 p.m. by guest speaker Jamele Adams, whose message of empowerment and unity resonated with attendees.
The festivities continued until 7:00 p.m., with music from DJ OxMighty, a bustling pop-up market, children’s games, face painting, and a variety of food options that brought the community together in celebration and joy.
