Echoes of the Unnamed
As part of the Juneteenth weekend of remembrance and celebration, Unmarked Graves invites the community to gather at the cemetery for a powerful, reflective experience that brings history to life.
Set alongside the cemetery ribbon-cutting ceremony, this event creates space to honor the lives and legacy of African Americans whose stories have too often gone untold. Through storytelling and interpretation, “tombstones” will speak—offering glimpses into the lived experiences, contributions, and resilience of those laid to rest, even when records are incomplete or names are lost.
This experience connects the national significance of Juneteenth—the celebration of freedom—with the local history embedded in the land. The cemetery itself stands as a reminder of inequities of the past, where Black individuals were often buried in less visible or less valued spaces. By gathering here, we acknowledge that history while uplifting the enduring impact of those who came before us.
Unmarked Graves is more than a historical program—it is a moment of collective reflection, recognition, and respect. As part of a broader Juneteenth weekend that includes community gathering, service, and celebration, this event helps deepen our understanding of freedom, legacy, and community.
Join us as we listen, learn, and honor the voices that still speak.
In partnership with Landmark Columbus, Columbus Parks and Recreation, Bartholomew County Historical Society, NAACP Bartholomew Co.
Many Freedoms: Voices from Across the World on What It Means to Call America Home**
Funding for this event was provided in part by the African American Fund of Bartholomew County.
As part of the Juneteenth weekend of remembrance and celebration, the Columbus Human Rights Commission invites the community to gather for an intimate and honest conversation about freedom, belonging, and what America means to those who were not born here.
As the United States marks 250 years of independence, this panel discussion creates space for voices that are too often absent from that celebration — the voices of immigrants and newcomers who have built their lives in this country and who carry a perspective on American freedom that those born here rarely see. Panelists from different corners of the world will share their stories — of arrival, of struggle, of hope, and of home. Through honest and vulnerable conversation, they will explore what freedom looked like from the outside, what it felt like upon arrival, and what it means to them today. Their journeys are different. Their answers will be too.
Many Freedoms is more than a panel — it is an invitation to see America through new eyes, on a day that has always been about the unfinished work of freedom.
Join us on June 19th for light bites, conversation, and a reminder that the American story is still being written — by all of us.
The event is free, but registration is required due to limited seating.
Doors will open at 12:00 p.m. for light bites and socializing. The program will begin promptly at 12:30 p.m.
Hosted by Columbus Human Rights Commission
Representing the Empty Chair **
As part of the Juneteenth weekend, the CYPOC Summit offers a powerful space for growth, reflection, and connection—designed specifically for professionals navigating leadership in underrepresented spaces.
This half-day summit brings together emerging and established leaders for an intentional experience centered on self-awareness, confidence, and career advancement. At the heart of the conference is a dynamic 90-minute session exploring implicit bias, communication, and personal leadership—equipping participants with tools to better understand their role and voice in rooms where they may be underrepresented.
Recognizing the real challenges many professionals face—feeling stuck, overlooked, or uncertain about their next step—the conference creates space to openly address topics like imposter syndrome and career plateau. It is designed not just to inspire, but to provide practical insight and strategies for moving forward.
The experience also includes a curated panel discussion over lunch, featuring diverse voices across industries and backgrounds. Panelists will engage in honest conversation about navigating professional spaces—sharing perspectives on authenticity, advancement, and the balance between disrupting and adapting within existing systems.
More than a workshop, this conference is a catalyst for building a stronger, more connected network of professionals. It reflects a broader vision of investing in future leaders—creating pathways for growth, representation, and long-term impact in the community.
Join us to learn, connect, and take your next step forward.
In partnership with African American Foundation Bartholomew Co., Columbus Young Professionals of Color, Ivy Tech Columbus
Story Book Walk
Join us for a special Story Stroll featuring The Juneteenth Story by Alliah Agostini!
Families are invited to read, walk, and learn together as they follow the story page by page along our interactive trail. Parents and caregivers can enjoy this unique reading experience with their children while hopping, taking giant steps, and exploring the story in a fun and engaging way.
This traveling Story Stroll will be featured at the Family Reunion Picnic, where children can enjoy a snack, earn prizes, and participate in the library's Summer Reading Program for even more rewards!
Most importantly, this event is designed to inspire a lifelong love of reading while celebrating the history and significance of Juneteenth.
Bring the whole family and join us for an afternoon of stories, movement, and community!
Hosted by Columbus Enrichment Program
Community Church Service
Join us for a meaningful and spirit-filled Juneteenth church service that grounds the celebration in faith, reflection, and gratitude. As one of the cornerstone events of the Juneteenth weekend, this community church service honors the rich tradition of the African American community — where worship and togetherness have always gone hand in hand.
Rooted in the significance of Juneteenth, this service offers a shared moment to reflect on freedom, legacy, and the enduring strength of community. Taking place on Sunday, June 21, it also coincides with Father's Day — making it a powerful opportunity to celebrate family and the generations that came before us.
All are welcome to gather, worship, and mark this historic holiday together.
Following the service, the celebration continues with the Juneteenth Family Reunion at The Lex from 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM.
In partnership with NAACP Bartholomew Co., Bartholomew County Public Library, African American Pastors Alliance, Stunna’s
Juneteenth Family Reunion
A joyful outdoor gathering celebrating food, fellowship, and community connection
Brother 2 Brother: A Men’s Workshop
THIS EVENT HAD BEEN RESCHEDULED FOR AUGUST 8TH
Join us for Brother 2 Brother, a powerful men's workshop brought to you by the Tru North Podcast — an afternoon dedicated to real conversations, growth, and the kind of brotherhood that moves men forward.
Whether you're looking to connect, be challenged, or simply be around men who are walking in purpose, this is the space for you
📅 Saturday, August 8th
📍 Columbus, IN
What to Expect:
🍽️ Food — Good food. Great vibes.
🎮 Games — Fun, competition & brotherhood.
💬 Dialogue — Real conversations. Real growth.
🤝 Mentorship — Learn. Grow. Inspire. Be inspired.
This isn't just an event — it's a movement. Come ready to engage, connect, and leave better than you arrived.
RSVP NOW:trunorthposcast22@gmail.com
THIS EVENT HAD BEEN RESCHEDULED FOR AUGUST 8TH
Hosted by Tru North Podcast
5k Juneteenth Walk-a-thon w/ BCPL Express**
Lace up your sneakers and celebrate freedom, health, and community! Empower365 invites you to join the 5K Juneteenth Walk-A-Thon — a morning of movement, unity, and purpose as we honor the legacy of Juneteenth together.
Whether you're a seasoned runner or just looking for a great reason to get moving, this event is for everyone. Come out, bring the family, and let's stride toward a healthier, stronger community.
📅 Saturday, June 13, 2026
📍 Donnor Park Shelter House 739 22nd St., Columbus, IN 47201
🕢 Schedule:
7:30 AM — Registration / Check-In
8:00 AM — Walkathon Begins
10:00 AM — Walkathon Ends
💰 Registration:
$10 per person
Children under 12 participate FREE
We're also excited to welcome BCPL Express to the event! Stop by their booth to explore resources, connect with your local library, and discover everything Bartholomew County Public Library has to offer.
This is more than a walk — it's a celebration of community, wellness, and the enduring spirit of freedom. Bring your family, bring your friends, and help us make history one step at a time.
For more information, contact Judy Jackson: 📧 jjackson@calvarychurchcolumbus.org
Hosted by Empower 365 & BCPL Express
Blood Drive
Pre-Registration is Preferred | Walk-ins welcome!
Hosted by Bespoke Events+Experiences & Versiti
STEM Camp**
PLEASE ONLY REGISTER CHILD IF THEY ARE ABLE TO ATTEND ALL 5 DAYS OF CAMP
This Juneteenth, give your child an experience they'll never forget! Join us for STEM camp designed to inspire the next generation of innovators, builders, and problem-solvers. In a safe, creative, and supportive environment, youth ages 8–14 will dive hands-on into the world of science, technology, engineering, and math — all while celebrating the rich legacy of Black excellence and achievement.
Hosted by Paths To Success