First Juneteenth Flag-Raising Ceremony In Aurora Coming Up

AURORA, IL — Aurora officials will host the city's first Juneteenth flag-raising ceremony June 19. The event is taking place in collaboration with Aurora Divine 9 Alliance and Aurora African-American Heritage Advisory Board, officials announced.

The event — set to kick off at 2 p.m. at One Aurora Plaza, 8 E. Galena Boulevard — will happen a year after Aurora City Council made history when it unanimously voted to make Juneteenth an official paid holiday for city staff.

A proclamation reading, presentation and flag raising are all on the schedule for the upcoming celebration. Juneteenth bracelets and flags will also be available, while supplies lasts.

Ahead of the historic event, community members can nominate a youth leader for a chance to win the 2022 Juneteenth Trailblazer Award. In describing candidates, officials are asking locals:

"Do you know a Class of 2022 graduate from college, high school or middle school? How about a student who excels academically, athletically, or in co-curricular activities? Are you aware of a young leader who gives back to the community through service?"

Winners of the inaugural award will then be celebrated at Sunday's event.

"As we preserve heritage and promote the future, nominate a trailblazing young leader who is building upon the Juneteenth legacy of culture and commitment to receive the Juneteenth Trailblazer Award," officials said.

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