Thousands of people came to Grand Army Plaza for last week's Juneteenth celebrations, filling the streets with music, dancing and calls for racial justice.
More than four gatherings were planned at the location throughout the day, which marks the liberation of 250,000 slaves in Texas in 1865, at the close of the Civil War. This Juneteenth had added significance, falling on the 23rd day of mass protests against systemic racism and police brutality in the city.
On top of being a place for gathering, a number of large marches passed through Grand Army Plaza, with some crossing over to Manhattan. In the afternoon a drum circle formed, and celebrations continued into the night.
Mayor Bill de Blasio announced Juneteenth would become an official city and school holiday next year.
