SEIU 1021 members, staff, and community came together in celebration and solidarity at this year’s Juneteenth event Friday, hosted by the union’s Social and Economic Justice Committee (SEJ) under the theme “We Are One.” The evening was filled with powerful performances, personal reflections, and vibrant Black joy as the union honored the resilience and contributions of the Black community in the ongoing fight for justice and liberation.

The event opened with music by Premier DJ Services (aka Dave the DJ) and was led by Mistress of Ceremonies Monica Chadwick, who was introduced by SEJ Secretary Lisa Evans. SEJ Chair Phelicia Jones welcomed attendees and introduced the full SEJ leadership team, including Program Director Delphinia Hardy, whose leadership helped shape the evening’s success.

“Tonight was powerful,” said Hardy. “Phelicia did a phenomenal job—everything from the entertainment to the speakers, singers, and food was excellent. Events like this show that our union stands in true solidarity with the Black community. It means so much to be part of a union that doesn’t just acknowledge Juneteenth, but celebrates it with intention and pride.”

The celebration featured an energetic dance performance by IJO-AJO (Dance of Joy) with Lorraine Bowser and Sha-Ron Brown; moving musical performances by Rodney Jackson, Jr. of the San Francisco Bay Area Theatre Company and renowned vocalist Dee Dee Simon; and heartfelt reflections from members and leaders including Paul Bellazain, Angela Thomas, Ms. Amelia Ashford Ward of the Sun Reporter, and Craig Smith of Highland Hospital.

“Today was really uplifting and gratifying—to have the support to create a space where we can celebrate, educate, and support each other,” said Craig Smith, who is an SEIU 1021 shop steward at Highland Hospital, where he has worked for 15 years, and AFRAM historian. ”Events like this are important at SEIU 1021 because they keep us tethered to each other in unity and solidarity—not just in our workplace fights, but socially as well. They help us learn from one another and build an educational resource for our membership, and I love that.”

The evening concluded with remarks from AFRAM President and SEIU 1021 Vice President of Region C Derrick Boutte, and a prayer led by Anthony Mills of SFUHSD.

SEIU 1021 thanks the SEJ Committee, performers, staff, and community members who made this celebration possible. From powerful testimonies to joyful song and dance, this Juneteenth gathering affirmed a collective truth: We Are One.