Amid vibrant art and cultural exchange, Ithacans can connect through shared experiences and active listening at the city’s annual Juneteenth celebration on Wednesday, June 19. Themed “Freedom Then, Freedom Now,” this year’s community celebration highlights the achievements and ongoing efforts of Black Americans in pursuit of freedom since the first Juneteenth celebration in 1865. Excluding open mic at The Downstairs, the events will take place at Southside Community Center at 305 South Plain St., Ithaca. In addition to the Juneteenth celebration, Southside Community Center has contributed to various programs in the recent weeks leading up to Juneteenth. Newsletter Signup“Through forums and activities in education, recreation, political and social awareness, the Southside Community Center is a community resource center,” Southside Community Center’s website states.