Juneteenth Art Making Workshop

At the corner of Farewell and Thames Streets, in tiny William Ellery Park, stands a grand beech tree known as The Liberty Tree. Though named after the Sons of Liberty’s resistance to British taxation in 1765, the Tree had been a well established sacred location for the black slave population in colonial Newport since 1755.

Trees have spiritual significance in many African countries including being a source of healing and regeneration, a sacred space where dead souls reside, and a communal space for celebration and worship. The tree’s majestic size, as well as its proximity to the Common Burial Ground, the final resting place for many black Newporters, made it a significant gathering place. Every June, black elections would be held at The Liberty Tree, naming a “King” or “Governor” who would hold office for one year. Election day was a highly anticipated annual celebration that featured music, dancing, and processions through the streets.

Sankofa Community Connection and the Newport Art Museum invite you to celebrate Newport’s vibrant African American culture at our Art Making Workshops and at the Day of Renewal event held on Juneteenth Holiday, Saturday June 19 at The Liberty Tree in William Ellery Park.

Drop In Workshops are FREE for all ages.
All materials are provided. Registration requested.

Additional Workshops:
Thursday, June 3, anytime 11am-3pm at Sankofa Community Connection 
Friday, June 11, anytime 3-5pm at the Newport Art Museum