On June 18, 2022, at 10 am, the Town of Rye, the Friends of the African American Cemetery and the leadership of The Osborne encourage neighbors to stand beside neighbors in an experience of shared service and learning to beautify and celebrate The African American Cemetery. It’s been a year since the Federal Government proclaimed Juneteenth a federal holiday, and in respect and observance of this momentous eventuation, members of the Town Council ask community members to come together to participate in a gardening event at the site.
The Town of Rye will be celebrating Juneteenth with a commemoration followed by a day of service beautifying the African American cemetery. This year’s Juneteenth commemoration will feature lessons in history from area experts and poignant perspectives from descendants of the many heroes interred within. It’s an occasion to pay homage to the experiences of local Black emigrants and citizens over the course of the past two centuries.
Speakers include David Thomas (President, Friends of the African American Cemetery), Village of Mamaroneck Trustee candidate Leilani Yizar, whose ancestors are interred within. They will be joined by other speakers, including local political and community leaders .
10 am: Commemoration and speeches
10:45 am - 12:15 pm: Service project
AFRICAN AMERICAN CEMETERY
215 North Street, Town of Rye, NY
(in the Greenwood Union Cemetery)
It is highly recommended that participants wear outdoor work gloves and bring any of the following items with them to help with clean-up work:
* It is important that you dress appropriately. Be sure to wear layers if necessary, thick socks, and closed toe shoes.
* Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
If you have a service form you would like filled out, please Email it to Councilperson Pam Jaffee at PJaffee@TownofRyeNY.com.
Rye Town Office
222 Grace Church Street, 3rd Floor
Port Chester, NY 10573
