Juneteenth is widely celebrated across the country as an annual commemoration of the end of slavery in the U.S. after the Civil War. Learn more about the history and celebrate Juneteenth with special broadcast programming.

Tuesday, June 13

8 p.m. Buffalo Soldiers: Fighting on Two Fronts - A Local, USA Special

Explore the complex history of Black Americans who enlisted in the U.S. military as a path to citizenship, a livelihood, and greater respect, and how they fought in military conflicts abroad and civil rights struggles at home.

Sunday, June 18

6 p.m. Juneteenth Jamboree 2021: From A Free Place to Displace

With the Galveston landing of U.S. Army Gen. Gordon Granger in 1865, slavery in Texas ended. African bondsmen became freedmen, and women and children likewise became African Americans. Many left the plantations to join freedom colonies; others sought out opportunities in cities and towns. Today, the consequences of gentrification and rising property values challenge new generations.

Monday, June 19

3 p.m. The Anderson Yellow Jackets

Equalization schools were established throughout the American South to maintain racial distance from Blacks. Austin created its own segregated high school in 1909, and it rose to statewide glory and out-grew three campuses; in 1971 it was closed as a segregated school. Fifty years later, students still identify themselves by their mascot "The Yellow Jackets" and remain connected as a community.

4 p.m. Juneteenth: Faith & Freedom

A documentary by award-winning director, Ya'Ke Smith that invites viewers into the story of Juneteenth - the holiday recognizing the end of legalized slavery in Texas - through the eyes of a Black man learning about the holiday from the direct descendants of those liberated that fateful day. The story reveals the harsh realities of slavery while also offering an inspirational insight into how hope, perseverance, and faith were major factors in the resilience of those who survived slavery. The film features 2022 Nobel Prize Nominee Ms. Opal Lee, the "Grandmother of Juneteenth" who was the guest of honor at the White House ceremony which enshrined Juneteenth as a federal holiday, and other prominent voices who played key roles in keeping the observance of Juneteenth thriving before the recent national recognition.

10 p.m. Fire on the Hill: The Cowboys of South Central LA

A critically-acclaimed documentary that paints the stories of three Black Cowboys in South Central LA and how they each find purpose, hope, and freedom through the cowboy lifestyle.