The University of Arkansas at Little Rock community will come together on Monday, June 20, to mark the university’s first celebration of Juneteenth.

June 19 is annually celebrated as Juneteenth, the oldest national commemoration of the ending of slavery in the country. The holiday originates from June 19, 1865, the day the last slaves in the country were freed in Galveston, Texas, at the end of the Civil War.

“UA Little Rock is proud to hold our first annual celebration of Juneteenth,” Chancellor Christina Drale said. “With our diverse campus community, the celebration of this important holiday highlights our commitment to creating a culture of inclusion and belonging while remembering this important moment in our nation’s history.”

The celebration will provide UA Little Rock students, employees, alumni, and friends with the opportunity to celebrate African American history and culture. Additionally, the celebration will feature a “Taste of Juneteenth,” a Black-owned food truck festival from noon-2 p.m. June 20.

“I am so happy we are celebrating Juneteenth,” said Dr. Melvin Beavers, Chancellor’s DEI Fellow and director of first-year writing. “It gives us the opportunity to educate and reflect on the nation’s history. Additionally, it gives all a chance to come together to discuss our shared goals for racial justice at our institution and within our communities.”