An event to celebrate 'Juneteenth,' the day the Civil War ended and slaves were freed, will be held in Brewer today, rain or shine.

June 19th, 1865 is the day soldiers marched into Texas to announce that the war was over and all slaves were free. It's recognized each year, across the country, as a day of remembrance, but also a day to recognize the work that still needs to be done.

Mayor Kevin O'Connell will be one of several guest speakers today, along with Brian Hurst of Bangor's Destiny Worship Center, and President of the Maine Human Rights Coalition, James Varner. A familiar face from the Bangor area, 90-year-old Mary Hunter will also be at the event and will share something special. Hunter and her husband became well-known in the community for their charitable efforts.

The Juneteenth event will be held from noon to 1:30 at the Joshua Chamberlain Freedom Park, on the corner of North Main and State Streets in Brewer. In case of rain, the event will be moved to the Brewer Auditorium, at the same time. It's free and open to the public.

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