The Best Moments From The White House Juneteenth Celebration

America’s commander-in-chief used his speech to remind participants that the “White House lawn’s never seen anything like this before” regarding the Juneteenth festivities. “Our history is not just about the past, it’s about our present and our future. It’s whether that future is a future for all of us, not just for some of us,” Biden said.

At the event, Harris emphasized how the upcoming presidential election could result in a terrifying future for Black Americans. “Because while we celebrate a holiday dedicated to teaching and honoring America’s full history, extremists across our country attempt to ban books and erase our past,” Harris stated. “And on this point, let us be very clear: Black history is American history.”

Actor Billy Porter, U.S. Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, Kamala Harris, Joe Biden and Philonise Floyd — the brother of George Floyd — enjoyed the Juneteenth concert on the South Lawn of the White House.

Actor Billy Porter and Vice President Kamala Harris had a little moment during the epic festivities.

Kirk Franklin gave a rousing performance during the concert and even welcomed Kamala Harris to dance with him onstage.

Shortly after welcoming her to the stage, Kirk Franklin kissed the hand of Vice President Kamala Harris, which made for quite the royal moment.

The tremendously talented Trombone Shorty is no stranger to the White House and impressed onlookers with a fantastic performance.

The one and only Gladys Knight sung classics such as “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” and “Midnight Train to Georgia.”

Hip-hop legend Doug E. Fresh took in the special moment during his captivating Juneteenth set.

Of course, Patti LaBelle — also known as the “Godmother of Soul” — gave a spirited rendition of “Oh, People” and kicked off her shoes in the process.

Country star Brittney Spencer donned an all-black ensemble as she sung her heart out.

Host Roy Wood Jr. told the crowd, “It’s important to know how we got all the way from enslavement to the first Black woman vice president and the first Black woman on the Supreme Court” in reference to the appointment of Ketanji Brown Jackson.

Nearly 1,700 people were in attendance for this year’s White House Juneteenth celebration, which recognized the Black struggle throughout American history.

Singer/songwriter Anthony Hamilton gave soothing renditions of a few songs from his classic discography.

Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) and Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.) were in attendance for the White House’s second annual Juneteenth celebration.

Charlie Wilson ended his unforgettable performance by chanting along with the audience. “Our ancestors are smiling down on us celebrating something that would have seemed unfathomable.”