Avondale proclaims June 19, 2025, as Juneteenth; city to hold celebration June 14

At the start of the June 2 meeting the Avondale City Council received a proclamation recognizing Juneteenth. Mark Foote, recreation programmer in the city—s Parks, Recreation and Library Division, introduced the proclamation and invited residents to the city—s third annual Juneteenth celebration.

"I'm here to introduce a proclamation recognizing Juneteenth, an important day in American history that marks the end of slavery in the United States," Mark Foote said, outlining community events planned for June 14 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Civic Center Complex. Foote said the event would include live music, local food vendors, educational talks at the Civic Center Library and performances highlighting cultural contributions of Black Americans.

Councilmember White read the proclamation on the record, tracing Juneteenth—s history and noting that Avondale officially recognized Juneteenth as a city holiday on February 22, 2022. The proclamation declared June 19, 2025, as Juneteenth in Avondale and encouraged residents to reflect on freedom and participate in celebrations across the valley.

The city manager—s office will distribute Juneteenth pins at the June 14 celebration, a staff member said. No public action or vote was required; the item was a ceremonial proclamation and an event announcement.