FOLFAN presenting family-friendly event celebrating African-American freedom, history and culture
Juneteenth U.S.A. at Black Miners Bar Planning Committee, Friends of Lakes Folsom and Natoma (FOLFAN), and California State Parks is hosting the second annual Juneteenth Celebration this Saturday, June 17 at Historic Black Miners Bar, Folsom Lake State Recreation Area.
Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in all states in the U.S. This free event, which runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., celebrates African-American freedom, history and culture, and preserves the legacy of California’s Black 49ers who came to the American River seeking freedom and a better life. The park entrance is located at 9698 Greenback Lane, in Folsom.
“Our goal is to bring all Californians together during Juneteenth at Black Miners Bar in the spirit of national unity,” said Thomas Stratton, co-chair of the Juneteenth event. “To cultivate a shared sense of national Freedom around the contributions of people of African descent to our state and nation. And ultimately, heal the wounds of the past while preserving our history for future generations.”
“The Juneteenth event, while a celebration, is also a reminder of the dark part of our nation’s history and the historic emancipation that gave freedom to enslaved African Americans,” said Jim Cassio, FOLFAN president. “We have made Juneteenth an important part of FOLFAN’s efforts to bring the community together to better understand our history and at the same time enjoy the wonderful natural resources available to us in this special place along the American River.”
Juneteenth at Black Miners Bar is sponsored by FOLFAN, California State Parks, and the Juneteenth U.S.A. at Black Miners Bar Planning Committee. Also essential to making this event possible is a growing list of co-sponsors including California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Intel Corporation, REI, City of Folsom, Sacramento Regional Transit, and more. SacRT is providing free transportation on event day so people can get to Historic Black Miners Bar from anywhere in Sacramento.
Event features will include:
- Educational exhibits
- Food vendors
- A variety of speakers
- Free guided nature and history walks by park docents and state parks interpreters
- Free coloring station for kids 12 and under
- Arts and crafts
- Vendor exhibits
- Music
The state park location provides lakeside beach access, including paddlesport rentals.
While the Juneteenth event is free, vehicles are subject to a $10 day use fee to enter the state park. For more information about state park rules and regulations click here.
About FOLFAN
Friends of Lakes Folsom and Natoma (FOLFAN), is the Cooperating Association for the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area. Formed in 2009, FOLFAN’s mission is “enhancing education and recreation opportunities for the public and protecting the wonders and resources of Lakes Folsom and Natoma” (also known as the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area).
About California State Parks
The mission of California States Parks is to provide for the health, inspiration, and education of the people of California by helping to preserve the state’s extraordinary biological diversity, protect its most valued natural and cultural resources, and create opportunities for high-quality outdoor recreation.
