STORY: :: June 19, 2025

:: Hundreds gather at LA's Leimert Park to celebrate Juneteenth with music, dance and community pride

:: Los Angeles, California

"We have people here, white people, Hispanic people, Asian people, because so many people have had discrimination. Women have had discrimination. Gays have had discrimination. The Hispanics are now under what they're going through in Los Angeles and all over this country. We're sorry and we feel for you guys. Stay strong. Stay together, unified, because good will win, evil will not win, good will win."

:: The annual Juneteenth celebration commemorates the end of slavery in the U.S.

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"Juneteenth is a great day because it just establishes our independence as Black people. Specifically as Black Americans. And I'm super excited to be out here today because I am a Black woman. I graduate from Howard University."

Juneteenth, celebrated annually, commemorates the end of slavery in the United States and honors Black freedom and resilience.

Attendees joined in synchronized dances, browsed Juneteenth-themed merchandise, and shared messages of resilience and unity.