Juneteenth Jubilee
MARTHA’S VINEYARD
JUNE 18-24, 2026
Juneteenth Jubilee
Publisher Monica Brady-Myerov
Production Designers
Emma Young, Andrew Rice
Ad Production
Jared Maciel, Jane McTeigue,
Advertising Director
Frederica Carpenter
Advertising Sales Team
Carrie Blair, Isabela Fernandez, Serena Ward
Marketing Manager
Tresa Lovio-Slattery
Events Manager
Kharma Finley-Wallace
Business Operations Manager Crystal Levine
The Martha’s Vineyard Juneteenth Jubilee insert is published by the Vineyard Gazette Media Group, P.O. Box 66, Edgartown, MA 02539, vineyardgazette.com, and is distributed free on Martha’s Vineyard. Copyright 2025. No portion of this publication may be reprinted without the express written permission of the publisher. Every effort has been made to confirm the accuracy of the information in this publication, and the data is deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. For advertising and editorial inquiries, contact publisher@vineyardgazette.com.
Following a 2025 Juneteenth service at Union Chapel, congregants made their way to
Beach to honor and remember ancestors.
Since Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021, Martha’s Vineyard has marked the occasion with events that bring the community together to reflect, learn, and celebrate. The Vineyard Gazette Media Group is proud to join in this year’s Juneteenth National Independence Day observance and to present the fifth edition of our Juneteenth Jubilee Program Guide.
Inside, you’ll find a full lineup of events and activities taking place across the Island.
On Thursday, June 18, the Vineyard Gazette Media Group will host a panel discussion exploring the legacy of Juneteenth as the nation approaches the 250th anniversary of its founding. The panel will feature Reginald M. Browne, an Island summer resident and commissioner on the United States Semiquincentennial Commission. His essay appears on the following page. “To celebrate America and to have a love of country,” he writes, “you celebrate the builders, and those who sacrificed for the nation’s success — your family, my family, the people we love.”
On Friday, June 19, head to Inkwell Beach in Oak Bluffs for music and games or catch a screening of "Black Patriots: Heroes of the Revolution" at the historic Union Chapel. On Saturday, June 20, bring the children in your life to one of several events at our Island libraries. Then, on Sunday, June 21, consider attending the annual Vineyard Gazette Media Group’s Juneteenth Gospel Brunch at the Edgartown Yacht Club for soulful music by Paryss & Allie and delicious food. However you choose to mark the occasion, we hope you enjoy celebrating Juneteenth with the people you love.
The Vineyard Gazette Media Group is grateful to the many organizations making this jubilee so special, including our sponsor Cape Cod 5.
On the Cover: Art by Maria-Lana Queen, Awakening #2, 2025, acrylic on canvas, 50 x 38 in., courtesy of Knowhere Art Gallery. Gallerist Valerie Francis writes that the work reflects an ongoing process of becoming, shaped by resilience, disruption, and possibility. In the context of Juneteenth, awakening speaks to liberation as an ongoing process of revelation and unfolding, where hidden histories come into view and new understanding continues to emerge, shaping how we move forward.
Jeanna Shepard
Inkwell
A publication of the Vineyard Gazette Media Group
SERVICE, SACRIFICE, AND THE LASTING SIGNIFICANCE OF JUNETEENTH
By Reginald M.
Browne, a commissioner on the United States Semiquincentennial Commission and on the executive committee of America250.org. Mr. Browne is a summer resident on Martha’s Vineyard in the town of Oak Bluffs.
As we celebrate Juneteenth, I think back to my appointment to the United States Semiquincentennial Commission by House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries several years ago. The commission is a bipartisan federal entity established by Congress to plan and execute the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. I brought a personal array of experiences to the commission, from my thirty-six years in capital markets at Wall Street trading firms, my nonprofit experience on the boards of universities and cultural institutions, and my active involvement in the community through my Divine Nine fraternity and a similar professional men’s organization.
Curious about how African Americans felt about the 250th anniversary of the United States – while seeking to build a foundation for how I would contribute to the commission's work – I posed two questions during smallgroup discussions. These questions led to a broader discussion about where the United States is today and how people felt about their place in their communities and, more generally, in the nation. Many of the small-group discussions were held during the summer on Martha’s Vineyard. Thoughtful conversations unfolded on porches after brunch or late-night fellowship. Often, you would find us on my back porch with a fire roaring in the fireplace. Folks tend to get scholarly the more wine you pour, but that is another story.
My first question harkened back to the bicentennial in 1976. I asked my guests – based on their personal experience or drawing from a larger context – whether their families felt better off regarding mobility, opportunity, healthcare, education, income, or any other metrics deemed relevant, from 1976 to the present.
The collective answer, though not universal, was yes; many felt that increased professional opportunities and general advancements in health care and education allowed for greater opportunity and measurable success. Some people said no. There was no right or wrong answer – just one’s view. We all listened and had thoughtful discourse. If we disagreed with their logic, I would remind them of their opportunity to vacation, or own property on, or live on Martha’s Vineyard; many felt the blessing of being able to be on the Island in whatever capacity.
Often, the group spoke of the symbolism of freedom, how enduring spirits created possibilities from legal and social advancements out of the civil rights era. It was always a bonus if an elder was present in the conversation, as they gave broader perspectives regarding how the 1968 race riots and civil disorder shaped the African American middle class. The elders reminded us of how, because of those efforts, African Americans were able to march into corporate jobs in the early ’70s, creating this arc of progress.
The second question I asked was whether they were patriotic or if they could describe their patriotism.
Many had difficulty defining patriotism, their role in the broader progress of the country, and even the very act of evoking love of country. For many, the topic is complex and difficult, especially with the current administration in Washington executing policies that many in the African American community find objectionable. Most comments could not be bifurcated from the current Washington politics of President Trump or the embedded effects of the canon of racism. Love of country remained elusive to some, as evidenced by their comments.
I believe that we should express love for this country because of all we have contributed to and fought for in growing this nation. From the first African brought to this nation to the colored troops serving in the nineteenth and early twentieth century wars to the present-day array of Americans, we have left a longstanding, indelible mark of service, dedication, and commitment to this nation. Freedom is carried and defined by you and each American. To celebrate America and to have a love of country, you celebrate the builders, and those who sacrificed for the nation’s success – your family, my family, the people we love, the family contributions conveyed via oral history that’s safeguarded and passed on. It's who we are and what this country stands for; it’s how we define ourselves. These are the building blocks of the United States.
The enduring significance of Juneteenth, which resulted in delayed justice and freedom for the last enslaved Africans in Texas, is far-reaching today. It is not only a moment but a movement. Justice is an ongoing endeavor to achieve full equality. In our world today, we are seeing challenges to freedom of expression and freedom of speech. Juneteenth is not only a celebration of African American liberation; it also can be applied to American liberation from tyranny. Freedom of speech and expression certainly has been muted by current policies.
For example, many universities are being restricted from government funding because of their policies and programs. Additionally, nonprofits are running for cover to restructure and restate their missions, fearing they will lose their tax status, all because of the political truism that litigation risk and government backlash are real. Even on the commission, we would discuss the need to avoid “woke” programming to stay in sync with current political realities. Is the very act of inclusion under attack? The commission’s programming, which I agree with, is targeted to all 350 million Americans without favoritism. Unfortunately, singular groups respond only to targeted programming. Juneteenth is not just for African American people, just as the birthday of America is not just for white Americans. Everyone must look to Juneteenth and its meaning of freedom, just as the anniversary of America looks to celebrate all Americans and what we have accomplished as a nation.
As for the first question: are you better off? Many who participated in these discussions overwhelmingly stated a sense of loss of community as upwardly mobile families left home for better jobs. Although some might be better off in opportunity, this loss of the traditional African American community was the cost. Many people now turn to Martha’s Vineyard for restoration of this lost community. The Vineyard, both year-round and in the summer, is nurturing and welcoming, and fulfills the power of fraternity through recognition of presence. I think we all can agree: this quality is what makes Martha’s Vineyard unique and stand out among a few peers.
As we recognize Juneteenth, the celebration of freedom is coupled with the rich and dark history of this nation; it is ours to embrace, but to recognize with honesty. Have a happy Juneteenth and join me in demanding that our government representatives live up to America's promise in our 250th year as an independent nation. We need to guide our young people to recognize this time so that when they are preparing to celebrate the nation's 300th birthday, the nation and all Americans will demonstrate the love of country and the love of neighbor. If we can do that, our nation will be on higher ground.
Oliver Whitfield, Asantewaa Oyo Simon, and Essence Taylor at the 2025 Juneteenth Flag Raising, held at the Tabernacle in Oak Bluffs.
Jeanna Shepard
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
THURSDAY JUNE EIGHTEENTH
100 Black Women Serving the Vineyard for 70 Years: Panel Discussion & Reception
Panel 5 – 6 p.m.; Reception 6 – 7 p.m. | Martha's Vineyard Museum, 151 Lagoon Pond Road, VH
A celebratory talk honoring 70 years of The Cottagers, Inc. — 100 Black women whose commitment to community, culture, and care has left a lasting mark on the Island, featuring longtime Cottagers reflecting on the organization's origins, evolution, and legacy.
MVM members: $20; non-members: $30 mvmuseum.org/registration-06-11-26/ info@mvmuseum.org; 508-627-4441
FRIDAY JUNE NINETEENTH
Juneteenth Jubilee Cultural Festival
Friday, June 19 - Sunday, June 21, 2026, full schedule available online | Union Chapel, 55 Narragansett Avenue, OB, and Jubilee MV, 42 Circuit Avenue, OB
Celebrate freedom, joy, and culture for all with a weekend of conversation, community, and music. jubileecharity.org | 518-577-2938
Held In Tension
11 a.m. – 5 p.m., opening reception: 6:30 – 8 p.m. | Center of Knowhere, 73 Circuit Avenue, OB
Exhibition opens: Held in Tension brings together artists to consider history as an active force, reflecting on the space between Juneteenth and July 4 and opening broader questions around identity, nationhood, and lived experience.
Free | knowhereart.com info@knowhereart.com, 917-960-9344
Juneteenth Flag Raising
11 a.m. | Flagpole at the entrance to the Tabernacle, OB
The Juneteenth flag will be raised to honor shared history, recognize the enduring contributions of African Americans, and renew a commitment to becoming a more welcoming, diverse, and inclusive community for all.
Free | generalmanager@mvcma.org; 508-693-0525
The 2nd Annual JuneTeaNth MV
2 – 3:30 p.m. | Check Eventbrite for details (forthcoming)
Join a fine and dandy celebration — perhaps a spot of tea & delicious conversation — as we celebrate JuneTeanth MV!
$35 per adult; Children under 12 free loyalteabagsy@gmail.com
The Vineyard Gazette's Juneteenth on Martha's Vineyard Panel Discussion
3:30 – 4:30 p.m. | Union Chapel, 55 Narragansett Avenue, OB
Discussing Freedom at 250: From Revolution to Juneteenth — Who Was America For? Featuring panelists Reginald M. Browne of the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission and Kyle Williams, educator, social justice advocate, and creator of A Long Talk About The Uncomfortable Truth.
Free | vineyardgazette.com/juneteenth
Juneteenth At The Inkwell
3 – 6 p.m. | Inkwell Beach, OB
Gather in a place rich with history for an afternoon of music, games, water sports, refreshments, and fun extras. Pack a cooler and join the celebration sponsored by local businesses.
Free | marthasvineyardchocolates@gmail.com
The Vineyard Mindset: Where Heritage, Creativity, and Business Meet
5 – 6:30 p.m. | Martha's Vineyard Museum, 151 Lagoon Pond Road, VH
Join Gatsby Coram at the MV Museum this Juneteenth for a conversation on art, heritage, and Martha's Vineyard, followed by a light wine reception in the Rose Styron Garden.
MVM member: $25; non-member: $35 mvmuseum.org/event/the-vineyard-mindset/ info@mvmuseum.org; 508-627-4441
Black Patriots: Heroes of the Revolution
5 – 6 p.m. | Union Chapel, 55 Narragansett Avenue, OB
A screening of the History Channel documentary "Black Patriots: Heroes of the Revolution," featuring NBA legend, best-selling author, and activist Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, covering the African American experience during the Revolutionary War.
Free | unionchapelinstitute.org UnionChapelinstitute@gmail.com
Juneteenth Community Celebration
6:30 p.m. | MV Salads, 55 Circuit Avenue, OB
An unforgettable Juneteenth celebration filled with community, Black storytelling, culture, connection, special surprises and unexpected moments.
Free | mvsalads.com susanna@mvsalads.com; 508-338-7754
Juneteenth Jubilee Freedom & Joy Cultural Festival '26 — Sonic Front Porch Podcast Taping
Time TBD | Jubilee MV, 42 Circuit Avenue, OB
Live "Sonic Front Porch" podcast taping and reception as part of the Juneteenth Jubilee Freedom & Joy Cultural Festival.
Free | events@hoverflyevents.com; 202-415-6264
SATURDAY JUNE TWENTIETH
Juneteenth Storytime
10:15 a.m. | Oak Bluffs Public Library, 56r School Street, OB (outside on the library lawn; inside with poor weather)
Join us for Juneteenth books, songs, scarves, and a parachute. Stories are geared toward kids ages 3 to 8, but all ages are welcome.
Free | oakbluffslibrary.org/events mlynch@clamsnet.org; 508-693-9433
Juneteenth Fabric Patch Making
Time: 11 a.m.–1 p.m. | Oak Bluffs Public Library, 56r School Street, OB
Drop in for a fun Juneteenth patch painting craft! We'll be using fabric paint on canvas and denim, and everything you need, including stencils, fabric, and paint, will be provided.
Free | oakbluffslibrary.org/events/ 508-693-9433
Juneteenth Crafting
11 a.m. – 2 p.m. (drop-in) | Oak Bluffs Public Library, 56r School Street, OB
Make a Juneteenth bracelet or key chain with pony beads! Drop in anytime.
Free | oakbluffslibrary.org/events/ mlynch@clamsnet.org; 508-693-9433
Juneteenth Concert
1 – 2 p.m. | Edgartown Public Library, 26 Edgartown-West Tisbury Road, Edg
Andrew Sue Wing, a Boston-based singer-songwriter and guitarist specializing in R&B, will perform live music on the library's front lawn. Family-friendly and free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served.
Free | edgartownlibrary.org/adult-programs/calendar programs@edgartownlibrary.org; 508-627-4221
Juneteenth Activity
2:30 p.m. | Oak Bluffs Public Library, 56r School Street, OB
Join librarian Michelle for a Juneteenth Activity. Celebrate Freedom Day with a little learning and a lot of fun. For ages 7–10.
Free | oakbluffslibrary.org/events/ mlynch@clamsnet.org; 508-693-9433
Juneteenth Jubilee Freedom & Joy Cultural Festival '26 — Main Event
2 p.m. | Union Chapel, 55 Narragansett Avenue, OB
Join us at Union Chapel for another year of trailblazing stories, inspiring music, and special guests. Keynotes and community events will be announced at jubileecharity.org.
Free | jubileecharity.org events@hoverflyevents.com; 202-415-6264
Marie B. Allen Juneteenth Creative Arts Contest Winners
2 – 4 p.m. | Union Chapel, 55 Narragansett Avenue, OB
The 2026 Marie B. Allen Juneteenth Creative Arts Contest for MVI 7th–12th-grade students on the theme "What freedom looks like, yesterday, today, and tomorrow." Cash prizes and awards up to $250 will be presented.
Free | davidmiltonallen@gmail.com
SUNDAY JUNE TWENTY-FIRST
Union Chapel Juneteenth Church Service
9:45 a.m. doors open, 10 a.m. service begins | Union Chapel, 55 Narragansett Avenue, OB
Please join us for church as we celebrate Juneteenth with Rev. Willie Bodrick II from Twelfth Baptist Church.
Free | unionchapelmv.org
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
SUNDAY JUNE TWENTY-FIRST,
cont.
Juneteenth Jubilee Freedom & Joy Cultural Festival '26 — Walk to Water Ceremony
Following the Union Chapel service | Union Chapel to Inkwell Beach
A Walk to Water Ceremony honoring and remembering the ancestors, taking place after the Juneteenth service at Union Chapel.
Free | jubileecharity.org events@hoverflyevents.com; 202-415-6264
The Vineyard Gazette's Juneteenth Gospel Brunch
12 p.m. | Edgartown Yacht Club, 1 Dock Street, Edg
A live performance by Paryss & Allie along with a brunch buffet to honor the spirit of Juneteenth through music, connection, and shared celebration.
$130 | vineyardgazette.com/juneteenth
Taste of Juneteenth
Panel 2 – 5 p.m. | The Portuguese-American Club,
137 Vineyard Avenue, OB
NAACP Martha’s Vineyard branch presents an afternoon of food, drinks, music, and more honoring Black culture, cuisine, and liberation. Explore the culinary talents of local Black chefs and indulge in soulful dishes.
$75 | naacpmv.org naacpmvbranch@gmail.com; 508-538-1509
WEDNESDAY JUNE TWENTY-FOURTH
Cottagers' Corner Grand Reopening Ribbon Cutting and Open House
Save the Date, Time TBD | Location: 57 Pequot Avenue, OB
Celebrate the grand reopening of Cottagers' Corner, the iconic building that has served as a fire station, jail, town hall, and home to The Cottagers Incorporated since 1968, now beautifully restored to honor its history and welcome the community.
Free | thecottagersincofmv.org info@thecottagersincofmv.org
www.naacpmv.org
naacpmvbranch@gmail.com
