Aurora, IL - June 19th, 2024, marks the 159th anniversary of enslaved people in Galveston, Texas learning they had been freed following the end of the Civil War, thus beginning the generational struggle for equality for black Americans. To commemorate the day, Mayor Richard C. Irvin helped lead the Annual Scheketa Hart-Burns flag-raising ceremony at One Aurora Plaza, named after the inspiring late alderwoman who passed away unexpectedly on June 19, 2023.
The ceremony featured guest speakers ABC 7 News Culture and Race Reporter Jasmine Minor and Major General Rodney Boyd, Commander of the Illinois National Guard and the first Black person to hold the post. The black-owned Dream Dance Academy, and the award-winning 40+ Double Dutch Club. Mayor Irvin gave Juneteenth Heritage and Excellence Awards to Major General Boyd, Minor, the 40+ Double Dutch Club, and Fox Valley Park District Commissioner At-Large Joe Grisson III.
Through the ceremony, Mayor Irvin honored the abolitionists who worked tirelessly so America could live up to its ideals of freedom and justice for all and uplift their heritage for future generations. This Annual flag-raising ceremony concluded the city's week-long celebration of “Juneteenth”. To cap off the ceremony, Mayor Irvin proclaimed June 19th, 2024 as an official Day of Observation & Holiday for the city of Aurora.
