Ancestral Echoes: Walking the Water, Singing the Land

This event, hosted by Juneteenth Portland, is a multi-site Juneteenth experience infused with African symbolism, poetic reverence, and community power. It is a Black-centered gathering honoring ancestral memory, land, and legacy through ceremony, movement, and community. We welcome other people of color and non-BIPOC family and community members to join us in respect and solidarity. 

At 11:30 AM, join Juneteenth Portland for a united ancestral processional through Eastern Cemetery, where participants will lay flowers on the graves of Black ancestors and offer prayers, songs, and words of honor and respect.

At 12:30 PM, participants are welcome to gather at Willard Beach in joyful remembrance—dancing, drumming, and casting flower offerings into the Atlantic. After the tribute, the day will transition into a communal celebration, marked by eating, laughing, remembering, and reveling in freedom by the sea.

◦ 11:30 AM - 12:15 PM – Processional at Eastern Promenade Cemetery  
◦ 12:30 PM - 6:00 PM – Gathering at Willard Beach (by the Snack Shack)
Please note that transportation between event locations is not provided by the event organizers. Participants are responsible for their own travel arrangements to and between event sites.

This event, along with a June 18 film screening, is sponsored by the Permanent Commission.