CNN and OWN to Simulcast ‘Juneteenth: A Global Celebration for Freedom’ Concert Event
A dazzling roster of musical talents will grace the stage for the second annual concert, ‘Juneteenth: A Global Celebration for Freedom.’
The unique concert experience will be jointly aired by CNN and OWN.
The forthcoming event, produced by Live Nation Urban and Jesse Collins Entertainment, is set to be hosted at the iconic Greek Theatre in Los Angeles. An impressive initial list of performers includes the likes of Miguel, Kirk Franklin, SWV, Davido, Coi Leray, and Jodeci.
Chris Licht, Chairman and CEO of CNN Worldwide, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, saying, “We are pleased to once again collaborate with Live Nation Urban to bring this impactful Juneteenth event to our viewers. We strive to provide a platform for understanding and celebrating a holiday of this magnitude.”
Adam Blackstone, an Emmy-winning multi-instrumentalist, and Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, an Oscar winner and co-founder of The Roots, will take the helm as musical directors for this year’s event.
Shawn Gee, President of Live Nation Urban, recalled the launch of the inaugural event, stating, “Last year, ‘Juneteenth: A Global Celebration for Freedom’ was a deeply emotional and unforgettable experience. Partnering again with CNN and Jesse Collins Entertainment, we are excited to be broadcasting live from the historic Greek Theatre in Los Angeles. We are committed to celebrating and educating about the significance of the Juneteenth holiday.”
Juneteenth Officially Recognized as a U.S. Federal Holiday Juneteenth was declared a federal holiday in 2021 when President Joe Biden enacted the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act. The holiday, observed on June 19, marks the day in 1865 when Major General Gordon Granger announced the emancipation of enslaved individuals in Texas, over two years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation.
In a 2022 statement, President Biden emphasized the significance of the holiday, saying, “This is a day to celebrate, to educate, and to act. As we observe Juneteenth, my Administration will persist in our endeavors to eradicate inequality from our country and institutions and guarantee genuine liberty and justice for all.”
‘Juneteenth: A Global Celebration for Freedom’ will broadcast live on CNN platforms on Monday, June 19, at 8 pm ET, with pre-show coverage starting at 7 pm ET. Additionally, OWN will air live programming from 8 pm ET until midnight.
Tina Perry, President of OWN TV Network & OWN OTT Streaming, expressed her pride in the event, stating, “OWN is privileged to simulcast this year’s concert. Juneteenth holds profound significance to our audience, and we view this simulcast as an opportunity to serve. We aim to celebrate this day alongside American families and reflect on this historical milestone for our nation.”
