CLARION, Pa. — Clarion University will host its 15th annual Juneteenth celebration, “Love and Courage,” at 10:30 a.m. on June 15 in Hart Chapel.

The celebration is free and open to the public.

Fred J. Hodges Jr., director of multicultural student services at Robert Morris University (pictured above), will be keynote speaker. Hodges is passionate about higher education, leadership, engagement, and programs that provide cultural awareness. He is a selfless person who exemplifies passion, energy, enthusiasm, and motivation to all he meets.

The program will include special music and poetry. Those who attend are invited to a free lunch in Eagle Commons following the program.

Juneteenth began in Texas. Although the Emancipation Proclamation was issued Jan. 1, 1863, slaves in Texas didn’t receive word until two-and-a-half years later, on June 19, 1865, that they were free.

Clarion’s Juneteenth is sponsored by: Clarion University, its African American Caucus and NAACP Student Chapter, and Clarion Chamber of Business and Industry.