Gladys Knight and Patti LaBelle, among other music luminaries, performed at an incredible concert on the White House South Lawn to celebrate the start of the Juneteenth holiday, which was hosted by the President and the Vice President.
President Biden commemorated Juneteenth on Monday, paying homage to a historic day and highlighting the importance of the event that he will formally acknowledge as a federal observance in 2021.
Juneteenth, which falls on June 19th, honours the day in 1865 when the last American slaves were told they were free, more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, ending slavery in Confederate states during the American Civil War.
African Americans have celebrated Juneteenth for many years, going back to the day when emancipation was finally implemented in Texas—the last bastion of Confederate resistance—signalling the actual end of slavery in the United States.
A star-studded Juneteenth celebration, the White House dinner honoured African Americans’ contributions to the entertainment business as well as their rich cultural legacy.
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In addition to the powerful vocals of Patti LaBelle and the soulful melodies of Gladys Knight, the concert included a diverse range of exceptionally gifted performers from many genres.
From American R&B artist Ledisi Anibade Young, singer and actress Audra Ann McDonald, singer and composer Raheem DeVaughn, and gospel singer Kirk Franklin, who uplifted people with his powerful songs.
On the South Lawn, rapper Doug E. Fresh created a lively atmosphere, and singer-songwriter Anthony Hamilton enthralled the crowd with his poignant songs.
Renowned actress Patina Miller contributed her vocal skills to the mix, and country music artist Brittney Spencer displayed her distinct fusion of soul and country music.
Jazz musician Trombone Shorty dazzled with his musical prowess, and legendary singer-songwriter Charlie Wilson sang his timeless melodies.
Comedian and actor Roy Wood, Jr. brought a light-hearted touch to the evening with his biting wit.
