S2 Ep1: Celebrating Juneteenth and Holiday Safety

Juneteenth, "Freedom Day," is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the end of slavery in the U.S., marking June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers announced freedom in Galveston, Texas. It's considered "America's second Independence Day."

This year, Oregon celebrates its 50th Juneteenth as an official state holiday. The in-person celebration provides healing and a chance to highlight the REACH program's achievements, including over 150 partnerships and establishing Multnomah County's first drive-thru vaccine clinic, vaccinating over 22,309 people.

Key Oregon Juneteenth events include a Health Fair at Wattles Boys and Girls Club (plant starters, vaccines, food, games), North Portland's 50th-anniversary celebration (discussing displacement in Vanport and Albina), and Gresham celebrations at Vance Park, hosted by Play Grow Learn, with an afterparty in Downtown Rockwood.

For Juneteenth events, REACH asks: What does Black Joy, Liberation, and Healing look like to you? What's your special message about Juneteenth? What COVID challenges did you face and how did you overcome them? Share responses on REACH Facebook or Ask a Black Doctor on The Numberz.

While statewide COVID-19 cases are leveling (11.7% test positivity on June 13), these numbers are likely undercounted due to at-home testing and lack of reporting. Outdoor gatherings are safer. High-risk individuals should wear masks indoors. Vaccination and boosting are paramount for protection. Mask-wearing outdoors depends on personal risk and comfort.

The FDA and CDC are considering Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines for children under 5 this week. If approved by the Western States Scientific Study Review Pact and Governor Kate Brown, vaccines could be available in Oregon next week. Parents should check with pediatricians, local public health, or trusted providers. Call 211 for assistance finding a vaccine provider.