This week, Givens Communities is a platinum level sponsor of 2024 Juneteenth Celebration events and activities presented by the Martin Luther King, Jr. Association of Asheville and Buncombe County.

Juneteenth recognizes when, on June 19, 1865, and two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, with news the Civil War was over and enslaved peoples were free. This started the oldest known celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States.

Throughout the week, Juneteenth Lunch & Learn Sessions will feature a catered lunch followed by local leaders speaking on topics such as the historical facts of Juneteenth, reflections of life in Black Asheville, and slave records and local African American cemeteries.

A Juneteenth Gala is Thursday (June 20) from 7-9:30 p.m. at Stephens-Lee Center. An Asheville Downtown After 5 puts Juneteenth centerstage with music, food and entertainment on Friday (June 21) at Lexington Avenue. All events are free and open to the public.

Sponsorships by Givens Communities Philanthropy Department supports core values to make a difference in the lives of others; being people passionate by treating one another with respect; realize the power of community through engagement and collaboration; and do what’s right by acting with integrity and accountability.