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Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery across the United States. From its Galveston, Texas origin in 1865, the observance of June 19th also known in African American communities as “Emancipation Day”, “Jubilee Day”, “Freedom Day”, is a pivotal moment in history. UC San Diego will explore what the Juneteenth holiday means for Americans, celebrate Black excellence, and center ways in which all communities can observe, reflect, and educate in commemoration. We are thrilled to invite you to these special events in celebration of our rich Black culture and history!

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Juneteenth Celebration & Black Excellence Awards

Juneteenth Celebration & Black Excellence Awards

This Juneteenth, we celebrate under the theme “A Family Affair: Embrace Our Progress.” Together, we honor the strength, resilience, and cultural legacy of Black communities while recognizing the power of family, unity, and collective progress. As we reflect on the journey toward freedom and equity, we also celebrate the generations of leaders, visionaries, and changemakers who continue to inspire and shape a brighter future for all.
  • Tuesday, June 16, 2026
  • Great Hall
  • 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. [Doors Open 1:30 p.m.] 
Join us as we celebrate Black excellence, resilience, culture, and community through live entertainment, signature cultural cuisine, powerful connections, and more. This annual Juneteenth celebration welcomes all students, faculty, and staff across UC San Diego.

“Struggle is a never-ending process. Freedom is never really won;
you earn it and win it in every generation.”

-  Coretta Scott King works beautifully

Juneteenth Reading List | Source: The National Museum of African American History and Culture

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UC San Diego Juneteenth Recommended Reading Lists

In honor of Juneteenth, the Geisel Library invites the campus community to explore a curated collection of books, articles, films, and resources that illuminate the history, significance, and enduring legacy of Black freedom and resilience. Through stories of courage, culture, achievement, and social progress, this collection offers opportunities for learning, reflection, and meaningful dialogue as we commemorate this important moment in American history.

Explore the Juneteenth Reading List and deepen your understanding of the journey toward freedom and equality.

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UC San Diego Juneteenth Celebration
Juneteenth 2026 - Save the Date

Juneteenth Paddle for Peace 2026

Juneteenth at the Beach is back!

Join Paddle for Peace for a day of celebration, culture, wellness, and community at the 5th Annual Juneteenth at the Beach.

North Kellogg Park, La Jolla Shores Beach

  • Saturday, June 21
  • 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m
Enjoy live music, delicious BBQ, free surf lessons, beach games, a volleyball tournament, wellness activities, a community speaker panel, movement sessions, a kids' corner, and more. This free, family-friendly event honors freedom, Black joy, and the power of community.

Bring your family, your friends, and your beach chair for an unforgettable day by the ocean. Everyone is welcome!
Everyone is welcome!

Event Details

In accordance with applicable Federal and State law and University policy, the University of California does not discriminate, or grant preferences, on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, and/or other protected categories.