Charles L. Blockson, historian and curator emeritus of the Charles L. Blockson Afro-American Collection in Sullivan Hall, and Diane Turner, the collection’s current curator, were among those discussing why it is important for African Americans to trace their personal histories during the collection’s Annual Juneteenth Celebration on June 19. This is the Blockson Collection’s second commemoration of Juneteenth, which recognizes the day that slaves in Texas got news of their emancipation.

As part of the celebration, featured speaker Dianna Cassey-Warner told the audience about the journey she took

through her family history. Her exploration ended with the placement of a historical marker in the Independence Mall area honoring her ancestor, abolitionist Joseph Cassey. The talk included a question and answer session and a tour of the Blockson Collection.