Juneteenth in Farmington: Where Freedom Meets Belonging
May 23, 2025
This summer, the Farmington area will host its 7th annual commemoration of Juneteenth, a celebration of freedom, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of justice with the theme “Forward Ever, Backward Never.” Taking place from June 19th to 21st, this community-led and community-centered event is convened by First African Methodist Episcopal Church (FAME) of Farmington Hills and co-sponsored by Nardin Park United Methodist Church, the InterFaith Leadership Council of Metropolitan Detroit, and Conversations on Race.
Highlighting African American leadership and heritage, this celebration is open to all people. Activities will be held on the campus of Nardin Park (29887 W. Eleven Mile Road, Farmington Hills, MI 48336), and will include:
- “My Coming to America Story” Community Dialogue Dinner
June 19, 5:45–8:00 PM
An evening of storytelling and shared experience, exploring migration, ancestry, and the human desire for belonging. - Family Movie Night: Monsters, Inc.
June 20, 6:30–9:00 PM
Bring the kids, enjoy popcorn and community. - Community Festival
June 21, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Fun for all ages in celebration of the richness of African American history and culture.
Bridging to Belonging: The Power of Relationships
The InterFaith Leadership Council of Metropolitan Detroit (IFLC) has played a pivotal role in supporting the Juneteenth celebration, not only as a co-sponsor, but as a community facilitator through the Bridging to Belonging program. The program has provided a place where community and faith leaders from across the Farmington area have practiced relationship-building and explored ways to co-create a new future together. The Bridging to Belonging program offers several customizable entry points for groups and communities, including:
- Film Screenings that explore social polarization and offer hopeful paths forward.
- Bridging the Divide Workshops that explore the science of othering and belonging, and provide practical bridging skills.
- Small Group Discussions that build deeper relationships by exploring personal values, storytelling, and co-creation.
In Farmington, two Bridging to Belonging discussion groups have formed, comprised of faith and community leaders committed to building trust, recognizing their shared humanity, and creating a richer sense of community belonging. These small group relationships have been transformative for participants and have served as the foundation for collaborative events like Juneteenth. Through humility, curiosity, and understanding, group members have discovered new ways to engage with one another and others to create lasting change.
The 7th Annual Juneteenth celebration is a testament to what is possible when a community comes together with hope and the desire to understand and celebrate the stories and experiences of all. Everyone is invited to participate, reflect, and celebrate Juneteenth in Farmington Hills.
Bring your story. Find your place. Be part of the change.
