The Juneteenth Altar"Liberation, Light and Legacy”
Juneteenth—a day to celebrate with one another, honor our shared history, and lift up the resilience, strength, and contributions of the Black American community. As we commemorate freedom and reflect on the ongoing pursuit of justice and equality, we came together knowing we are the Light, Legacy, and leaders of Liberation… Knowing our future is in our hands."
- Heavenly, My Tribe Rise
The community altar was created to honor Black America, to provide a space of joy, reflection and reimagining.
The altar was one of the first points of connection people experienced as they entered DENA Juneteenth 2026. From the moment people walked into the space, they were immediately drawn to the display, its presentation, and its powerful symbolism.
The Tree of Life became a meaningful place of reflection, remembrance, and connection. People stopped to read the messages and inserts, connect with the symbolism of the tree, and acknowledge those whose lives had transitioned. The words and messages flowing from the Tree of Life deeply resonated with attendees. People stood and sat in front of the tree, becoming immersed in the messages and reflecting on the lives, memories, and contributions represented throughout the exhibit.
Every contribution offered through the exhibit created another opportunity for people to engage, remember, heal, and connect with one another. The exhibit became more than a visual display—it became an experience that invited people to pause, reflect, honor, and feel connected to the community.
The outcome was a powerful space of remembrance, reflection, connection, and community healing, allowing people to honor those who came before us while recognizing the continued strength, legacy, and life of our community.
More than 1,500 people attended DENA Juneteenth (night/day events), and the Tree of Life/altar served as a point of connection for attendees as they entered the event.
“ I was filled with joy as I cried, while reading the messages”
“ I came to see the tree and then was so deeply connected to the messages and with the tree”