Peaceful march starts at African cemetery

Juneteenth celebrates end of slavery

On Friday, June 19, a peaceful Freedom March in Key West will recognize and celebrate Juneteenth, the oldest commemoration of the end of slavery in the United States. The Freedom March starts with a rally at 5 p.m. at the African Cemetery near the Edward Knight Pier at the foot of White Street. The march will start at 6 p.m. and head toward Mallory Square. Route specifics were still being finalized at presstime. 

The event will feature speeches from members of the community, music and other contributions celebrating the culture of people of color in Key West and all over.

The public is invited to this free event and the City of Key West has granted its support.

In addition to celebrating Juneteenth, the goal of the Freedom March is to defend black lives and black freedom, raise awareness and acknowledge the injustice and discrimination people of color face in this country as well as the work we still have to do to achieve Key West’s vision of One Human Family.More information is at keysprotest.com.