save the date: FLFAC TO HOST 4TH ANNUAL COMMUNITY FORUM on may 23, 2026

Residents and community stakeholders are invited to save the date to attend the 4th annual Freedom Day Fish Fry on May 23, hosted in Manatee County to commemorate the emancipation of Florida’s enslaved Black American population. While national celebrations acknowledge Juneteenth (June 19, 1865), the end of slavery was proclaimed in Tallahassee on May 20, 1865. This annual community observance coincides with the celebration of Memorial Day, also known as “Decoration Day,” wherein the formerly enslaved honored the lives lost during the Civil War.

Join Florida Freedmen Advocacy Center for an engaging and informative nonpartisan community program, that unites history, culture and politics over a classic fish fry brunch. There is no cost to attend, however there is a suggested donation of $10.

Doors are set to open at 11:00, and the program will begin at 11:30.