The City of Charleston will host its annual Juneteenth Celebration on June 19 from 6 to 9 p.m. on Ann Street between King and Meeting Streets, marking what organizers describe as the largest commemoration yet of the abolition of slavery in the United States.
This year’s event, titled the Juneteenth Block Party & History Lesson, is produced by Chew Entertainment, the Power 2 Inspire Foundation, and the Office of Cultural Affairs. The event will feature a concert led by Ray Chew, Music Director of “Dancing with the Stars,” who is assembling an all-star group of musicians to pay tribute to Michael Jackson.
The Office of Cultural Affairs is seeking one young male performer, ideally aged 8 to 14, to represent the young Michael from his Jackson 5 days. Interested parents can submit a 30-second video by June 1 for consideration. More information can be found at this link.
In addition to youth performers, Chew Entertainment is also looking for local professional horn musicians—including trumpet, trombone, and saxophone players—to join the band. A rehearsal is scheduled for June 18, and interested musicians should prepare using the provided charts.
The celebration will kick off with a performance by Charleston gospel artist Javetta Campbell. For the first time, attendees will also hear a history lesson about Gadsden Wharf from Professor Damon L. Fordham, who is recognized as a local historian and storyteller for the MOJA Arts Festival.
“It is so important for Charleston residents, and visitors to Charleston, to know the role that this city played in building America,” said Rochelle Riley, Director of Cultural Affairs. “Every child in America should be taught as much about Gadsden Wharf as they are about the Mayflower.”
Gadsden Wharf is noted as one of the largest entry points for enslaved Africans in North America. Completed in 1772, it functioned as the primary disembarkation site for captured individuals until the U.S. banned the international slave trade in 1808. Historian estimates suggest that nearly 100,000 enslaved Africans arrived there, making it a significant historical site now home to the International African American Museum.
The Juneteenth celebration will also include local food trucks and vendors, along with a “Gullah Village,” where visitors can browse goods crafted by Lowcountry artisans.
The Power 2 Inspire Foundation, which partners with the Office of Cultural Affairs for this event, focuses on empowering youth in the music industry. Its founder, Vivian Scott Chew, stated, “We do more than just shape talent; we reinforce the values of preparation and resilience.” Charleston youths interested in music careers are encouraged to apply for the foundation’s Virtual Summer Internship/Mentorship program before the June 1 deadline. More details can be found at www.power2inspire.org.
