Politics

‘It feels like freedom’: Juneteenth celebrations highlight Black joy across the Pacific Northwest

By Bryce Dole (OPB)

GRESHAM, Ore. June 18, 2026 10 p.m. Updated: June 19, 2026 11:31 p.m.

People are gathering to celebrate Juneteenth in communities across the Oregon and Southwest Washington, including Gresham, Lincoln City, Hermiston, Medford, Portland and Vancouver.