Though Juneteenth News Today

People of all generations packed Friendship Square in Moscow to celebrate Juneteenth during an event Monday that included speakers, music and even a little bit of dancing.

From West African red-colored teas made with ingredients like hibiscus petals and kola nuts to Big Red Soda, red drink has a long, rich history.

The tradition of celebrating Juneteenth with red drink has roots in West African red-colored teas made from ingredients like hibiscus petals and kola nuts. The earliest Juneteeth celebrations in the U.S. featured drinks like molasses and water, red lemonade, and (starting in the early 20th century) red carbonated beverages.

From West African red-colored teas made with ingredients like hibiscus petals and kola nuts to Big Red Soda, red drink has a long, rich history.

Though Juneteenth is still days away, events celebrating Black freedom kick off Wednesday and last through the next week in and around Boston.

For many Black Kentuckians and Tennesseans, the Eighth of August is a special day – a time for barbecue, reuniting with loved ones and marking their freedom from slavery. These annual celebrations are in the same spirit as Juneteenth, but their roots predate those of the now national holiday.

To Shelby Stewart, Juneteenth represents the enduring legacy of Yates — and a reminder of that there's so much more progress to be made.