Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. Beyond its historical significance, Juneteenth offers an opportunity for organizations to reinforce their commitment to diversity, inclusion, and social justice.
Kendall companies are celebrating Juneteenth by engaging in conversations about equity and cultural inclusion, bringing musical performances into Kendall spaces, and more. Here’s a look at what some KSA members are doing:
- Google will be celebrating Juneteenth with a live musical performance at the Urban Park stage on Wednesday, June 15 from 4:00 – 5:00 pm.
- Biogen will be hosting a virtual discussion for employees titled “The History and Celebration of Juneteenth,” led by Dr. Christopher Pugh. During this interactive session, Dr. Pugh will focus on what Juneteenth is, why and how it is celebrated, and how to be a supportive ally.
- Volpe BIG (Blacks in Government) Employee Resource Group will host a walking tour of the Boston Black Heritage Trail. It’s sure to be a fun, educational activity for employees and their families
- LabCentral’s Black Performance Art: From Juneteenth On event on Tuesday, June 20 will take audiences on an evolutionary exploration of Black Art throughout several eras of American history: the 1860s, 1920s, 1960s, 1990s, and 2010s. Between 4:30 – 7:30 pm you will hear and see powerful poems by Osamase Ekhator, and Amanda Shea, masterful rhymes by Milkshaw Benedict, lively music from DJ Fab, and electrifying dances from local step team, SXChocolateBC. Food and drink will be provided.
- Pfizer will be celebrating Juneteenth by hosting an esplanade walk of Tuesday, June 20. They’ll also be giving away tasty treats from Black-owned business, Destiny African Market Puff Puffs in their lobby between 1:00 – 3:00 pm.
- Sanofi’s BOLD ERG (Employee Resource Group), for Black employees and their allies, will be hosting a blood drive on Tuesday, June 20 at 450 Water Street in Cambridge Crossing. They’ll also be hosting a Volunteer Week campaign to encourage colleagues across the US to volunteer in their local communities.
- Whitehead Institute‘s The Black and African Diaspora (BAD) network is hosting a community-wide event on Tuesday, June 20 from 4-6pm at the Whitehead Cafeteria, 455 Main Street. Soul food will be served and live music will be performed by guest saxophonist, Ben Flenyol.
- Alnylam and The Color of Biotech MA will host their Juneteenth Celebration of the Arts on Thursday, June 22 at 675 West Kendall Street between 4:30 – 8:00 pm. The event will feature local artists and vendors, including dance performances by the BeanTown Lockers and OrigiNation Cultural Arts Center, spoken word from Amanda Shea, and a fashion display by House of Nahdra.