UC SAN DIEGO

May 27, 2025

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ALL ACADEMICS, STAFF AND STUDENTS AT UC SAN DIEGO, INCLUDING UC SAN DIEGO HEALTH

UC San Diego Honors Juneteenth

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, Emancipation Day, or Jubilee Day, is observed annually on June 19 and commemorates the moment in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, learned of their freedom, over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued.

This historic day marked the effective end of slavery in the United States and represents a powerful symbol of independence, delayed justice, and the enduring fight for Black liberation. Officially recognized as a federal holiday since 2021, Juneteenth is both a solemn remembrance and a joyful celebration of Black excellence, creativity, and impact — a legacy that continues to shape every corner of American life. This year, Juneteenth will be observed on Thursday, June 19, 2025.

We are thrilled to invite you to the 5th Annual Juneteenth Celebration, hosted by the UC San Diego Black Staff Association, on:

  • Date: Tuesday, June 17, 2025
  • Time: 2–4 p.m.
  • Location: Great Hall

This year’s theme, “We Are the Blueprint: An Unapologetic Legacy of Excellence,” celebrates the strength, resilience, and boundless creativity of Black communities. It honors the legacy of freedom fighters, visionaries, artists, scholars, and changemakers—the architects of lasting change.

The program will feature powerful cultural expressions, moments of reflection, and the Black Excellence Awards, which will honor outstanding contributions across the University.

This event is free and open to the UC San Diego community, and registration is required. A complimentary meal will be provided to the first 200 people who reserve tickets online.

In recognition of this annual event, two hours of administrative leave with pay have been approved for employees to attend the event. Supervisors, upon request, may approve the use of such leave when the absence does not infringe upon the performance of required job duties or patient care.

By honoring Juneteenth, we recognize our shared history and the work that remains to dismantle systemic racism and injustice. At UC San Diego, equity, dignity, and unity remain at the heart of our commitment to building an inclusive and empowered community.

We encourage the UC San Diego community to learn more by visiting the National Museum of African American History and Culture to explore Juneteenth's significance and ongoing legacy.

Thank you to the members of the Black Staff Association and the Juneteenth Celebration Planning Committee for organizing this important campus event.

We wish you all a meaningful and reflective Juneteenth observance.

University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093