Juneteenth: A Dialogue on Change and Community

In honor of Juneteenth, the Dallas Historical Society, in partnership with the African American Museum, will present “Juneteenth: A Dialogue on Change and Community”—a compelling evening of reflection, conversation, and cultural celebration—on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at the historic Hall of State in Fair Park.

The evening will feature a distinguished panel of civic leaders and historians whose life’s work has helped shape Dallas and the broader national narrative on civil rights and racial justice. The panelists include Rev. Peter Johnson, civil rights activist and founder of the Peter Johnson Institute for Nonviolence; Dr. W. Marvin Dulaney, renowned historian and Deputy Director of the African American Museum; and Levi Davis, Dallas’ first African American Assistant City Manager and longtime community advocate.

Beginning at 5:30 p.m., guests may attend the separately ticketed “Pour Yourself Into History” Happy Hour, which includes an exclusive preview of the new Juneteenth exhibition, a meet-and-greet with panelists, and a light reception. The main event—a free panel discussion—will follow from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., offering attendees a rich, multi-generational dialogue on the legacy of Juneteenth, the struggle for Black freedom in Texas, and the continuing pursuit of justice.

Reflecting on Juneteenth’s Legacy

The event is anchored by the presence of General Order No. 3, the only known original printed version of the document that proclaimed freedom for enslaved people in Texas on June 19, 1865, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation. This historical artifact will be featured in the “Juneteenth: A Celebration of Freedom” exhibition at the Hall of State—an interactive experience that invites visitors to engage both with historical narratives and their own personal reflections.

The exhibit includes two components: the “Historical Track,” featuring firsthand accounts from formerly enslaved individuals, and the “Celebration Track,” where visitors can record their thoughts and reactions to Juneteenth’s legacy.

“Juneteenth is not just a moment in history—it is a living legacy of resilience and resistance,” said Dr. Dulaney. “This event is about connecting the past to the present and honoring those who fought to make freedom real.”

Panelist Profiles

• Rev. Peter Johnson is a veteran of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and a participant in the historic Selma to Montgomery march. He has spent decades advocating for civil and human rights in Dallas and across the South.
• Levi Davis has dedicated his life to public service and was the first African American to serve as Assistant City Manager for the City of Dallas. His career spans leadership in municipal government, education, and nonprofit initiatives.
• Dr. W. Marvin Dulaney has earned national recognition for his scholarship in African American history and currently serves as the Deputy Director and COO of the African American Museum at Fair Park.

Event Details

• What: Juneteenth: A Dialogue on Change and Community
• When: Thursday, June 19, 2025
  • 5:30 p.m. — “Pour Yourself Into History” Happy Hour (ticketed, $30)
  • 6:30–8:30 p.m. — Free Panel Discussion
• Where: Hall of State, Fair Park, 3939 Grand Avenue, Dallas, TX 75210
• Tickets/RSVP: Register here or visit DallasHistory.org

For more information, contact assistant@dallashistory.org or call 214-421-4500.

About the Dallas Historical Society

Founded in 1922 and housed in the iconic Hall of State since 1938, the Dallas Historical Society collects, preserves, and exhibits the heritage of Dallas and Texas. With over 160,000 annual visitors and robust educational outreach, the Society remains a cornerstone of cultural preservation and civic education in North Texas.