Leading the Way
Juneteenth, the holiday celebrating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, has become increasingly recognized in the United States in recent years. Major League Baseball (MLB) teams are joining the celebration by recognizing Juneteenth with special events and initiatives.
The Boston Red Sox, Washington Nationals, and Oakland Athletics have been at the forefront of MLB’s celebration of Juneteenth. The Red Sox held a special Juneteenth ceremony at Fenway Park on June 19th, 2021, featuring a performance by the Boston Children’s Chorus. The ceremony was also attended by members of the Red Sox organization, including President and CEO Sam Kennedy, Manager Alex Cora, and players Christian Vazquez and Rafael Devers.
The Washington Nationals held their own Juneteenth celebration at Nationals Park. The event featured a performance by the Howard University Gospel Choir and a special address from former President Barack Obama. The Nationals also unveiled a new Juneteenth logo that will be displayed at the ballpark throughout the 2021 season.
The Oakland Athletics held their own Juneteenth celebration at the Oakland Coliseum. The event featured a performance by the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir and a special address from A’s outfielder Ramón Laureano. The A’s also unveiled a new Juneteenth logo that will be displayed at the ballpark throughout the 2021 season.
In addition to these three teams, other MLB teams have also held special Juneteenth events and initiatives. The Chicago White Sox held a special Juneteenth ceremony at Guaranteed Rate Field, featuring a performance by the Chicago Children’s Choir. The Atlanta Braves held a special Juneteenth ceremony at Truist Park, featuring a performance by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.
MLB teams are showing their support for Juneteenth by recognizing it with special events and initiatives. These events are an important way to recognize the history of African Americans in this country and to celebrate their freedom. As more MLB teams join in the celebration of Juneteenth, it is sure to become an even more widely recognized holiday in the United States.
