A Journey Towards Freedom

Text: "A Juneteenth Celebration" with image African American woman riding a horse

This project is made possible in part by a grant from Michigan Humanities, an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Matching grant funds provided by the Friends of the Royal Oak Public Library.

A Journey Towards Freedom is a Juneteenth celebration examining the lives, histories, and struggles in the fight for freedom.

Program of Events:

Round Logo, text "Black History 101 Mobile Museum"

Black History 101 Mobile Museum

June 6, 2023 -- 10am - 3pm

Explore the unique historical impact of the Black experience in America through this one-of-a-kind internationally renowned and award-winning traveling exhibit: Black History 101 Mobile Museum. Dr. Khalid el-Hakim, curator and founder, makes the necessary and compelling connections between the past and present using both artifact - including original documents, photographs, magazines, albums, and other materials - and lecture. Visitors will experience original cultural and historical material that celebrates the Black experience and challenges the dominative narrative of American history.

This event will include a lecture at 12pm by Dr. Khalid el-Hakim, Founder of the Mobile Museum.

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Cowboys and More...

June 8, 2023 -- 10am - 2pm

A long-standing tradition since Juneteenth celebrations began, the Black rodeo has played a huge role in celebrating history and freedom Real-life cowboys explain and demonstrate cowboy life in this fun, interactive, and engaging program.

At 10am, join us for Cowboy Storytime: Oklahoma cowboys Brian White and Ron Hunter read Thunder Rose by Jerdine Nolen, a larger-than-life tale of a young girl who overcomes adversity, even in the face of Mother Nature.

At 11am, a Roping Demonstration

And at 1pm, Happy Horses 101: Meet Queen Sabrina and her horse Charlie Brown. Licensed social worker Sabrina Cesaire and partner Lloyd Hogan come to us with "equine assisted therapy." Meet horses up close and learn how they reduce anxiety, depression and behavioral issues.

Learn more about the historical Legacy of Juneteenth from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History & Culture.