Juneteenth Celebration

Join Social Justice Matters, Inc. on Wednesday, June 19th (Juneteenth) at 7:00 PM for a special program to celebrate Juneteenth 2024 as we reflect upon this year’s theme, “Sankofa: Looking back on our past to move forward for a brighter future.” We  are pleased to welcome our guest speaker for the evening, Commissioner Rebecca L. Williams from the Union County Board of Commissioners, who will share her reflections on this year’s theme followed by a brief question and answer session. 

We are also excited to honor the Social Justice Matters, Inc. 2024 Freedom Award recipients Ruby and Thurman Simmons, founders of the John Shippen Memorial Foundation.  Mr. and Mrs. Simmons have been pillars in the Scotch Plains-Fanwood community for many years and it is through their tireless efforts that we are made aware of the rich history and contributions of John Shippen, the first African-American and American-born golf professional to play in the U.S. Golf Association (USGA) Open in 1896.  The Social Justice Matters, Inc. Freedom Award has been a yearly tradition started at the 2022 Juneteenth celebration to recognize and honor the unsung heroes in our local communities. 

This is a free event open to all.  Community members interested in attending our program can register through Eventbrite .