Orange County, CA — The Orange County Black Solidarity Network (OCBSN) proudly invites community members toattend its Juneteenth Kickoff Celebration on Thursday, June 4, 2026, from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Arts & Learning Conservatory, located at 151 Kalmus Drive, Suite G3, Costa Mesa, CA 92626.
This year’s theme, “Honoring Freedom. Advancing Equity. Strengthening Community,” reflects both the significanceof Juneteenth and the ongoing work of building a more just and inclusive future. Juneteenth recognizes the moment in 1865 when freedom reached the last
enslaved people in Galveston, Texas—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. This day stands as a reminder that progress delayed is still progress demanded, and that the pursuit of equity and justice continues. The OCBSN’s Juneteenth Kickoff Celebration celebrates its significance, rooted in reflection, storytelling, inspiration, and forward movement.
Attendees will hear from the evening’s keynote speaker, Arshay Cooper, bestselling and award-winning author and Golden Oar recipient for his contributions to the sport of rowing, who will share his compelling story of resilience, courage, and collective rise. Guests will also enjoy a
dynamic author panel featuring Dr. Kecia Alexander, Vice President of Human Resources at Think Together, Martha Daniel, Founder & CEO of IMRI, and Dr. Mel Palmer, Founder of Emotions Innovation, each bringing wisdom and leadership grounded in impact.
“Juneteenth reminds us that freedom must be remembered, protected, and advanced in every generation,” said event Emcee, Gregory C. Scott, President and CEO of Community Action
Partnership of Orange County. “Here in Orange County, this kickoff celebration is more than a
gathering. It is a moment for reflection, unity, and renewed commitment to building communities where dignity, equity, and opportunity are not promises delayed, but realities lived. The Orange County Black Solidarity Network is proud to help create space for that work to continue.”
This event is more than a celebration—it is a call to remember our history, honor those who came before us, and continue the work of strengthening our communities for generations to
come. Community members, civic leaders, nonprofit organizations, faith leaders, educators, and residents from across Southern California are encouraged to attend. To register for this free
event, please go to ocblacksolidaritynetwork.org/#events
For more information, sponsorship opportunities, or media inquiries, please contact:
Media Contact: April Mays
Phone: (714) 897- 6670 X 3500
Email: amays@capoc.org
About the Orange County Black Solidarity Network (OCBSN)
The Orange County Black Solidarity Network (ocblacksolidaritynetwork.org) is committed to uplifting Black voices, fostering unity, advancing equity, and strengthening communities
throughout Orange County through advocacy, collaboration, and cultural engagement. The
network is comprised of local organizations including Community Action Partnership of Orange County, Charitable Ventures, Arts & Learning Conservatory, The Council of African American
Parents, The Green Foundation, Thurgood Marshall Bar Association, HEAAL, 100 Black Men of Orange County, the Black Chamber of Orange County, and the African American Alliance Fund of the Orange County Community Foundation.
