A community recognition event is set to take place in Cook County as part of the Juneteenth Illinois 2025 celebration on June 14. The event, titled "Getting to the Heart of the Matter," marks the fifth annual Juneteenth celebration by the county since it became an official holiday in December 2020.
Juneteenth Illinois was co-founded by the late Cook County Commissioner Dennis Deer and continues under Executive Director Barbara Deer. The initiative is a collaboration between several Cook County Board Commissioners, state representatives, and other local officials.
The day-long activities will be held at Malcolm X College in Chicago from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Events include breakfast, a memorial tribute to Dennis Deer, panel discussions, a blood drive, a resource fair, senior Bingo, a pre-Father’s Day gesture, and the Juneteenth Scholarship Reception.
Mayor Brandon Johnson will speak at the scholarship reception from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., where $10,000 in scholarships will be awarded to students. The program will also feature youth leadership showcases with African dance, drumline performances, soulful music, and food.
Executive Director Barbara Deer emphasized the importance of engaging and educating citizens about justice and community progress: “Every year, we look forward to engaging and educating citizens about the work and progress being made in this city and county that is centered around justice, health and wellness, education and generational wealth building."
All-access to panels and activities is free for the public with pre-registration encouraged due to its popularity.