Juneteenth Watch party

The League of Women Voters of Illinois (LWVIL) invites the public to commemorate Juneteenth with a special virtual program on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at 7:00 p.m., featuring acclaimed civil rights activist, vocalist, and music director Van Gilmer.

This event is available to the community through a partnership with the DeKalb County History
Center, Ellwood House, and the League of Women Voters of DeKalb County. An in-person
watch party and community discussion will be hosted at the History Center, located at 1730 N.
Main Street in Sycamore. Doors open at 6:30 PM. This event is presented as part of the Arts in
Action project, which aims to explore local history through storytelling, civic dialogue, and
diverse perspectives.

The evening’s program features Mr. Gilmer’s powerful musical performances and firsthand
reflections on the 1960s lunch counter sit-ins in Greenville, South Carolina, where he was
arrested as a young student engaging in nonviolent protest. His message of perseverance and
equality is a fitting tribute to Juneteenth, the day marking the end of slavery in the United States.

Following the virtual presentation, local attendees are invited to participate in a facilitated
conversation reflecting on the legacy of Juneteenth, civil rights, and the importance of truthful,
inclusive history.