The Gorge celebrates Juneteenth

The recently federalized holiday commemorates the emancipation of enslaved Black Americans, honoring the anniversary of June 19, 1865, specifically, when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to bring final news of freedom.  

Founded by Evelyn Charity, Ann Harris, and Stephanie Harris in 2021, B.I.G. is a non-profit organization designed to unite and uplift self-identifying Black, Black biracial, and Black multiracial individuals in the Columbia River Gorge, where approximately one percent of residents identify as Black, and three as Black biracial, according to 2024 U.S. Census data.

“There are a lot of people here who are culturally isolated,” Charity explained, calling on the story of a young student who felt like she was in a “fishbowl” and suffered from depression. “That’s what brought us together. So we could embrace our similarities and share our culture with the community.”

Charity is on the Juneteenth planning committee, alongside fellow B.I.G. members Ann Harris, Robin Allen, August Oaks, Jade Parker, and Quincy Butler, who have spent the last seven months organizing the celebration — fundraising and divvying tasks like food and entertainment.  

Allen, a personal stylist, relocated to the Gorge from L.A. and initially struggled to fully embrace her Blackness. When she crossed paths with B.I.G., attending its first Juneteenth celebration in 2023, she immediately jumped on board. “I felt like I’d literally found my people,” Allen said. 

Now, as B.I.G.’s events and marketing manager, Allen plays a massive hand in organizing and hosting its Juneteenth celebrations, while also designing the organization’s merch and website.

Food, art, and other marketplace vendors scattered the Jackson Park lawn during the event, brought on last year to give back to black and queer businesses at the conjunction of Juneteenth and Pride month, Allen explained. “I go to so many markets in Portland and see so many talented BIPOC and queer creators. It feels cyclical to support them.

The celebration kicked off with a performance from Red Elk Spirit Drum and original songs on guitar from the youngest B.I.G. member, Marie-Louise. Later, The Gorge Freedom Choir, B.I.G. member Eva, and Arturo Leyva offered musical stylings, before renowned Portland artists LaRhonda Steele and saxophonist Eldon T. Jones brought the house down to cap the event. 

Attendees participated in “Boots on the Ground” and “Electric Slide” dance sessions, while kids took part in a musical chairs-esque “cake walk” to win prizes. 

Both Charity and Allen highlighted B.I.G.’s emphasis on youth involvement, helping Black and BIPOC kids feel comfortable in their skin around children of different backgrounds. “Juneteenth means community, a safe way to learn about culture and feel confident in celebration of Black traditions,” Allen said. “It’s important for the kiddos, because it’s tough growing up right now. They need to be outside, running around, and celebrating who they are.”

The event’s attention to music and food, especially, offers a platform for people to recognize history through tradition, “turning something ugly into something beautiful,” Charity said. “Music, art, and food — they bring people together.”

“That’s the best way for people to learn, when you’re not just teaching, but surrounding them with music and joy,” Allen added. 

Beyond a fun-filled evening of sunshine and movement, B.I.G.’s Juneteenth celebration illuminated an America that can and should be: people of all ages, colors, and backgrounds congregating in the spirit of love. 

B.I.G. will host fundraising events throughout the year, including film screenings and live music. For more information on how to donate or get involved, visit blackinthegorge.org.