Juneteenth1865, produced by Rockford Community leader Tommy Meeks is excited to announce its return for the 34th Juneteenth Celebration. This event is the longest-running Juneteenth Celebration in the state of Illinois! President of ICRG (Inner City Reconstruction Group) and Founder of Rockford Juneteenth Celebrations, Tommy Meeks, created Juneteenth1865 with the sole mission of promoting and cultivating knowledge and appreciation of African American history.

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, celebrates the emancipation of slavery in the United States. It commemorates June 19, 1865, when the last enslaved African Americans held in Confederate states were finally freed by the Union army. Six months later, the Thirteenth Amendment officially made slavery illegal throughout the "entire" United States. Juneteenth has been observed since 1866.

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Award Categories

Entrepreneur of the Year - An outstanding new entrepreneur (1-3 years) that has shown success and has a direct benefit to the black community and our local economy, health and wellness, and/or workforce.

Impactor Award - A local community group that makes a positive continuous impact on the lives of minority community members.

Juneteenth Advocate of the Year - Individual who has been involved in one or more projects that specifically supports the advancement of collaboration in support of Equity, Inclusion and Diversity.

Unsung Hero - An Individual who works behind the scenes to improve the region/ community. (Seeking someone who often works behind the scenes and/or has not been substantially recognized for passions and efforts)

Faith based Leader of the Year - A faith based leader that shows a passion for the advancement of our diverse community through advocacy, support of equity, inclusion, economic mobility, wellness, collaboration, and belonging.

Deadline for nominations is May 31, 2024

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