Kumbayah the Juneteenth Story, written by Rose McGee, is a two-act play that addresses a factual and traumatic time in our history–when news was deliberately withheld that Black people could no longer be enslaved in this country. Storytelling and music weave together mesmerizing scenes. Although tragedy is depicted, this play within a play is tremendously uplifting. The play spans centuries and continents, with scenes set in early 1800s West Africa, present-day North Minneapolis, and the Turner Plantation, TX in 1863. Following the play, Dr. Amelious Whyte, UMN College of Liberal Arts interim director for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, will moderate a Q&A with the cast.

Pre-show Celebration: At 10:30 am, join us for a community celebration hosted by the Minnesota Humanities Center. Connect with 19 community groups whose work aligns with the mission of what Juneteenth represents and view a photo exhibit curated by Sweet Potato Comfort Pie, honoring over 20 diverse community leaders who have been active in racial justice and healing.

Kumbayah the Juneteenth Story is presented by Minnesota Humanities Center and Northrop in collaboration with Sweet Potato Comfort Pie, The Liberal Arts Engagement Hub, and local organizations.

This activity is supported by an Imagine Fund Special Events Grant, an initiative of the University of Minnesota Executive Vice President and Provost, established through a generous gift from the McKnight Foundation.

Funding for this project is provided in part by Thrivent, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota, Medtronic, African American Leadership Forum, League of Women Voter Minnesota, Minnesota Association of Black Lawyers, Mortenson, and Mutual of America.

About the Play

man in plaid shirt and suspenders lifting his face to the sky, eyes closed, hands open upwards.

Woman in purple dress and headscarf sings, head raised, eyes closed, hands over her heart.

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