Juneteenth has never been a celebration of victory or an acceptance of the way things are. It's a celebration of progress. It's an affirmation that despite the most painful parts of our history, change is possible - and there is still so much work to do.
— C.S. Lewis
|
|
|
Network members' voices bring good news and share highlights from around our community |
|
Honoring and Commemorating Juneteenth in Boston |
|
Juneteenth, also known as Juneteenth Independence Day or Freedom Day, is an annual holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States. It celebrates the date of June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, with news that the Civil War had ended and that all enslaved individuals were now free.
In recent years, Juneteenth has gained increased recognition and significance as a day to reflect on the history of slavery and systemic racism in the United States, as well as to celebrate the resilience and achievements of Black Americans. In Boston, Massachusetts, Juneteenth is observed through various events and activities that honor the contributions of the Black community to the city's rich cultural heritage.
Boston has a deep connection to the history of slavery and abolitionism in the United States. The city played a significant role in the fight against slavery, with prominent figures such as William Lloyd Garrison, Frederick Douglass, and Harriet Tubman leading slaves to freedom. Charles Sumner was a leading American advocate for the abolition of slavery and whose efforts as chair of the committee on Foreign Relations helped to establish diplomatic recognition of Haiti by the United States, which the US recognized when President. Abraham Lincoln commissioned Benjamin F. Whidden to act as U.S. diplomatic representative to Haiti on July 12, 1862 (59 years after Haiti’s Independence).
Indeed, this Juneteenth will not be just another celebration of victory or an acceptance of how things are but a reminder that we are making progress and must press on until dignity, respect, and equity are allotted to all.
To this end, we’ve curated a list of events around Boston commemorating Juneteenth, including this one from Meet Boston:
Juneteenth Emancipation Observance
Celebrate Freedom and Black Joy at the 14th Annual Boston Juneteenth Emancipation Observance
|
|
 |
Date & Time:
June 19th, 12:00 PM EST
|
|
|
|
Address:
Museum of the National Center of Afro-American Artists
300 Walnut Ave, Boston, MA 02119
|
|
|
|
Also explore:
-
Juneteenth Open House at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts. Wednesday, June 19th 10:00 am - 5:00 pm EST. Tickets on first-come, first served basis. Free admission with valid Massachusetts zip code.
-
Juneteenth Celebration with North Shore. Saturday, June 22nd 11:00 am - 3:00 pm EST. Lynn Museum at 590 Washington St. Family friendly event!
-
Juneteenth Brockton. Celebrate Juneteenth in Brockton with music, food, and community. Saturday, June 15th 12:00 - 6:00 pm EST at 430 Belmont St Brockton, MA 02301.
-
Newton Juneteenth Celebration 2024, by Families Organizing for Racial Justice. Saturday, June 15th, 12:00 - 4:00 pm EST at Hyde Bandstand at Hyde Playground, 90 Lincoln St Newton, MA 02461. Attend a family celebration that bring entertainment, food trucks, vendors, kids activities and more.
-
Juneteenth Block Party: A Family Reunion, by Brookline for The Culture. Wednesday, June 19th 12:00 - 4:00 pm EST at Florida Ruffin Ridley School, 345 Harvard Street Brookline, MA 02446.
|
|
A member of the Village Honored with Faculty Award for Excellence in Social Work Practice |
|
One of our own, Desiree (Desi) Hartman was honored with the Faculty Award for Excellence in Social Work Practice for demonstrating an exceptional commitment and “outstanding merit in the classroom, field, and community.” Desi received this award when graduating with her Master of Social Work (MSW) degree in May 2024.
Desi's journey in BMC Pediatrics began seven years ago when she joined Vital Village Networks as an AmeriCorps VISTA member. Her dedication and passion for community service quickly became evident, leading her to continue her work with Vital Village Networks, where she now serves as a Senior Program Coordinator. Desi continued as a part of the Vital Village team while completing her degree.
During graduate school, Desi brought the wisdom of the Village to her classrooms and deepened her knowledge of mental health, community organizing, research, and policy change. Desi expanded her expertise through clinical internships with the Child Witness to Violence Project and BU Immigrants’ Rights and Human Trafficking Program. This experience has further solidified her commitment to supporting the wellbeing of children and families, addressing the impacts of trauma on children and families, and working alongside people-powered communities in the fight for our collective liberation.
Desi's recognition with the Faculty Award for Excellence in Social Work Practice is a testament to her outstanding contributions and unwavering dedication to transformative social change for children and families. As Desi reflected on how the Village transformed her, she aspires to continue to make positive contributions to the Village and our greater community.
|
|
Together, We Thrive. Give Today! |
|
At Vital Village Networks, we envision a world where every child's birthright includes a healthy, joyful, and equitable future. As we continue to work collectively to improve child well-being and nurture community leadership, we see power in knowing we are not alone, and that Together, We Thrive.
Every contribution, regardless of the amount or type of service, helps to sustain this critical work of supporting civic leadership and driving positive change.
Can we count on your support to help us reach our goal?
|
|
|
|
Celebrating the lives of LGBTQ+ individuals and the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ rights in the United States, we've outlined a list of ways to show your support:
- Be aware of your own biases and work to address them
- Use inclusive language
- Listen and learn more about the unique challenges and health issues that LGBTQ+ individuals may face
- Use your voice to address anti-LGBTQ+ legislation
|
|
|
Here are some resources for LGBTQ+ individuals, as well as caregivers, educators, providers, and allies: |
|
TEAM UP Program Expansion to Address Rising Mental Health Crisis Among Children
Boston Medical Center
|
|
Boston Medical Center announced the launch of the Transforming and Expanding Access to Mental Health Care in Urban Pediatrics (TEAM UP) Scaling and Sustainability Center to combat the rising mental health crisis among children. BMC’s TEAM UP, which began in 2015 and is now the standard of care in seven pediatric clinics, will expand to reach 126,000 children in 29 clinics in the next four years.
In Massachusetts, one in five children and adolescents has a behavioral health condition, but it can take years to receive a diagnosis and treatment due to stigma, workforce shortages, and social factors that prevent timely care. By integrating behavioral healthcare into pediatric clinics in community health centers, TEAM UP removes barriers to care for patients in historically marginalized communities.
|
|
Connect with Vital Village Networks at these upcoming events |
|
We hope to see you at our June Network Connecting Meeting!
Monday, June 10th | 5:30 pm
|
|
Healing-Centered Advocacy for Equity: Beyond Trauma-Informed Practices Workshop
Tuesday, June 11th | 1:00 pm
|
|
Check out available resources relevant to children and families |
|
My'Self' in the World Children Storytime |
|
Attend the My “Self” In the World Children Storytime series with your young children every Thursday at 3:30 p.m. ET via Zoom. Join us for readings, activities, and reflections focused on social-emotional learning. |
|
More Vital Village Events and Opportunities on LinkTr.ee |
|
Visit the Vital Village LinkTr.ee, and follow our social media channels to keep up with Village Events and Opportunities. |
|
|
Events, resources, and opportunities by our partners and community organizations |
|
How to Talk to Children about War
Greater Good Magazine
|
|
This article from Greater Good Magazine is a useful resource to help guide conversations with children about war and humanitarian crises. |
|
"All About You" Free Community Resource Fair
Codman Square Neighborhood Development Corporation
|
|
In honor of Neighbor Works Week, Codman Square Neighborhood Development Corporation is hosting an “All About You’ Community Resource Fair, where you are invited to engage in community sponsored connections, trainings and opportunities. Learn about creative workshops, summer activities for kids, employment, health and wellness, and much more. |
|
|
Thursday, June 6th
4:00 - 7:00 pm EST
|
|
|
|
The Great Hall in Codman Square
6 Norfolk Street, Boston, MA 02124
|
|
|
|
Pre-Father's Day Basketball Tournament and Community Event
Power House Ministry
|
|
Power House Ministry is hosting a free Pre-Father's Day 5v5 basketball tournament and community event on Saturday, June 15th, at 1:00 pm. Register your team by June 12th to reserve your spot on the court and enjoy free food, face painting, a bouncy house, prizes, and more fun for the whole family!
|
|
|
Saturday, June 15th
1:00 pm EST
|
|
|
|
Harambee Park
930 Blue Hill Ave. Boston, MA 02124
|
|
|
|
Free Men's Conference: A Man of Purpose
Greater Love Tabernacle
|
|
The Greater Love Tabernacle is hosting a free 2-day Men's Conference, Friday and Saturday, June 28-29th. Join guest educators, preachers, and panelists to discuss topics of reentry, mental health, trauma, and more. No registration required, just show up! |
|
|
Saturday, June 15th
1:00 pm EST
|
|
|
|
Harambee Park
930 Blue Hill Ave. Boston, MA 02124
|
|
|
|
Join Fathers' Uplift National Drop-In Group for Dads every Tuesday for FREE! Virtual sessions from 4:00 - 5:00 pm EST are crafted to support you with resources, strategies, and advice on co-parenting, navigating family and probate court, and managing child support issues.
"We're here to help you strengthen your bond with your child and find your footing through the challenges of fatherhood. Don't walk this path along. Connect, learn, and grow with us."
|
|
In Person & Virtual Classes
|
|
The Summer Fitness Series offers free fitness programming in Boston Parks. Join both in person and virtual classes led by certified fitness instructors.
Visit boston.gov/fitness for more information, and check Facebook and Twitter at @bostonparksdept and @healthyboston. |
|
Revisit the May Network Connector Newsletter Archive on our website, and explore the full newsletter archive library here. |
|
Check out job, volunteer, and grant opportunities available in our community
|
|
Hiring multiple positions |
|
|
Age Strong is hiring for multiple open positions. Join the team and help improve the lives of Boston's Older Adults. Click here to learn more and view open positions.
|
|
Professional development training for people working with young children and their families |
|
|
The Brazelton Touchpoints Center (BTC) |
|
|
The Brazelton Touchpoints Center (BTC) offers live, online workshops and multi-day courses for all professionals who work with young children and their families. Our trainings are led by BTC staff facilitators and national facilitators, who provide certificates of attendance. Members of the BTC Learning Network receive a discount on all registration fees. (Click here for more information on joining the BTC Learning Network.)
|
|
Health Equity and Housing Justice Fellowship |
|
|
GenUnity's Fall Leadership Program Opportunity |
|
|
GenUnity, a Boston-based nonprofit, has officially launched their Health Equity and Housing Justice Fellowship application for the Fall season. Each Fellowship cohort brings together 50 mission-driven Greater Boston residents to unpack why health or housing disparities persist, foster meaningful connections with local leaders, and build essential civic leadership skills.
|
|
Free 8-week Biotechnology Manufacturing Associate Training |
|
|
JVS offers a free 8-week Biotechnology Manufacturing Associate Training for those looking to enter the field. At the end of the 8-week, part-time training program, graduates will be placed in full-time roles at local biotechnology companies, with starting wages of at least $25/hour. Selected participants will also receive a $599 stipend for their participation. JVS is currently recruiting for July and September training programs, schedule an information session today! |
|
Center for Working Families, City of Boston |
|
|
The Center for Working Families is offering no-cost financial coaching. For more information, contact:
|
|
Special Initiatives Grant Program - Call for Proposals! |
|
|
The Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Foundation |
|
|
The Special Initiatives grant program provides organizations with a one-time grant of up to $50,000 to pilot or launch a new project over a one-year period. This grant is intended to fund projects that empower communities to advance health equity. Projects should positively impact the health or health care related needs of those Massachusetts residents who have been economically, socially, culturally, or racially marginalized. The Foundation expects to award between 5 and 6 grants during this cycle.
Proposals are due on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, at 12:00 p.m.
|
|
Helping Children Learn About Health Relationships |
|
Teaching children about healthy relationships involves modeling respectful behavior, encouraging open communication, and tailoring discussions to be age-appropriate. Helping children understand empathy, respect, consent, and the significance of personal boundaries while promoting self-esteem is important. Ensuring they know where to seek help and providing resources reinforces these lessons, helping children build healthy, respectful relationships.
An in school program promoting healthy relationships for 13-15 year old children reported a 92% reduction in victimization at the four year follow-up compared to a group of students not exposed to the program. Continued teaching of healthy communication skills and conflict resolution can help support safety. The teaching of these behaviors should come from trusted and allied adults from in and outside the home and coaches have been shown to play an important role. Coaches spreading these messages about healthy relationships to male high school athletes showed a reduction in aggressive behaviors one year later. Creating safe environments at school and at home, where children can learn how to express their emotions in a healthy way is also critical and should start at the community level. And family involvement in lessons starting as early as pre-school is encouraged.
Supporting survivors of infant partner violence is essential, as it can help prevent further abuse and assist those already exposed to violence. Housing programs that provide safe and secure locations for those escaping abuse report 84% of survivors feel improved physical safety, and survivor-centered services increase self-esteem and decrease depression among survivors.
|
|
Ways to Secretly Signal for Help |
|
Foshee, V. A., Bauman, K. E., Ennett, S. T., Linder, G. F., Benefield, T., & Suchindran, C. (2004). Assessing the effects of the Safe Dates program: A randomized controlled trial. American Journal of Public Health, 94(4), 619-624.https://ajph.aphapublications.org/doi/pdfplus/10.2105/AJPH.94.4.619
Miller, E., Tancredi, D. J., McCauley, H. L., Decker, M. R., Virata, M. C. D., Anderson, H. A., ... & Silverman, J. G. (2012). One-year follow-up of a coach-delivered dating violence prevention program: A cluster randomized controlled trial. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 43(6), 622-629.
Niolon, P. H., Kearns, M., Dills, J., Rambo, K., Irving, S., Armstead, T., & Gilbert, L. (2017). Intimate Partner Violence Prevention Resource for Action: A Compilation of the Best Available Evidence. Atlanta, GA: National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
|
|
Have an event, job opportunity, or resource to share with the network?
|
|
Vital Village Networks is a network of residents and agencies committed to maximizing child, family, and community well-being. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
