The Salisbury-Rowan National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) will have its  24th annual Juneteenth Celebration in downtown Salisbury in the parking lot behind City Hall on Saturday, June 15, from noon until 6 p.m.

Juneteenth, the celebration of freedom from slavery, is the oldest African-American holiday observance. Unlike other holidays, Juneteenth observances began spontaneously throughout the county. Other holidays were started by  specific individuals and organizations at a specific time and place.

Juneteenth is known by  many names such as “Emancipation Day,” “Emancipation Celebration,” “Freedom Day” and “Jun-Jun.”

The freedom message reached different parts of America on various dates between 1863 and 1865. Texas slaves were not informed about the Emancipation Proclamation that  freed them in 1863 until after the Civil War ended in 1865. The message of freedom reached them on June 19, 1865 and this is where the popular name Juneteenth (for June 19) comes from.

Juneteenth is most popular in Texas and it is the only state that has made it a legal holiday. Juneteenth stands as proof that slaves hated slavery and celebrated its abolishment with excitement.

Salisbury-Rowan NAACP will enjoy the day with family, games, food vendors, informational vendors, spoken word, music and dance talent. DJREALKC of 102 JAMZ will host.