The event recognizes Juneteenth's significance and celebrates the progress, resilience, and achievements of Black Americans
Hillsborough County commemorated Juneteenth on Thursday with its 5th Annual Juneteenth Flag-Raising Ceremony, bringing together community leaders, elected officials, and residents to honor the holiday's enduring significance.
Held at the north entrance of Frederick B. Karl County Center in downtown Tampa, the ceremony recognized Juneteenth as a day of remembrance, reflection, and celebration. The annual observance commemorates June 19, 1865, when news of emancipation reached enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation.
Making the trip from Philadelphia this year was Saniya Gay, the Inaugural National Miss Juneteenth. Gay says it was an honor to be part of Tampa's Juneteenth celebration.
"We are not just celebrating freedom, we're also celebrating the people that came before us and after us," said Gay. "We are the future from what our past has brought us."
The event featured remarks from Hillsborough County officials, elected leaders, and community representatives who reflected on the history of Juneteenth and the importance of preserving and sharing history with future generations. Attendees also enjoyed musical performances by the Tampa Bay Juneteenth Coalition Community Choir and a presentation by students from the Howard W. Blake High School Air Force Junior ROTC program.
The ceremony concluded with the raising of the Juneteenth flag, a symbolic tribute to freedom, resilience, and progress. Attendees gathered in solidarity to recognize the contributions, achievements, and lasting impact of Black Americans throughout the nation's history.
Jarielys Carmona, Miss Juneteenth Tampa Bay 2026-2027, called the flag-raising a powerful moment.
"It's very empowering to see the flag go up. It means that we're free," said Carmona. "Seeing everybody come together, it's an amazing feeling."
About Juneteenth
Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021 and is observed annually across the United States. Hillsborough County continues to recognize the holiday through community events and educational opportunities that encourage residents to learn about the nation's history and celebrate the values of freedom, equality, and unity.
Most of Hillsborough County offices and facilities will be closed Friday, June 19, in observance of the Juneteenth holiday. View the full list of Hillsborough County facilities and services closed on the Juneteenth holiday. Stay up to date on the latest events across Hillsborough by visiting HCFL.gov.