June 10, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact: Gloria Van Hof 815-342-7744

Sue Dobbe-Leahy 815-236-2550

Jennifarre Davis 815-900-9752 Exhibitor Info

JUNETEENTH – FREEDOM DAY CELEBRATION – JUNE 20

(Woodstock, IL)            The McHenry County Juneteenth organization will host their fourth annual Juneteenth Freedom Day, Saturday, June 20, from 3:00 pm - 5:30 pm on the Historic Woodstock Square. Mrs. Sandi Johnson, educator and behavior interventionist will be the keynote speaker. Features include exhibitors, music, and the launch of Gloria Van Hof’s new book, The Underground Railroad Had Depots Here.

Juneteenth commemorates the date of June 19, 1865, when Union troops marched to Galveston, Texas and enforced the January 1, 1863 Emancipation Proclamation, freeing over 250,000 enslaved Blacks still held in bondage, deprived of their freedom and basic dignity. This year, is the 160th anniversary of Juneteenth, now celebrated around the globe.

Keynote speaker Mrs. Sandi Johnson is an educational leader with more than 15 years specializing in behavioral systems and building inclusive school cultures. She has served as a Principal, Assistant Principal, and Behavior Interventionist, bringing a well-rounded perspective that bridges leadership, instruction, and direct student support. Her work focuses on implementing trauma-informed practices and developing behavior support systems that empower both students and staff.

A dedicated advocate for special education, Johnson holds Master’s degrees in Administrative Leadership and Special Education. She is licensed in the State of Illinois as a Superintendent and Director of Special Education, reflecting her commitment to systems-level impact and continuous improvement. Johnson is currently completing her doctoral dissertation focused on adult social-emotional learning (SEL) and its impact on student–teacher trust and classroom climate. Her work centers on strengthening educator capacity to build supportive, relationship-driven learning environments.

The annual Juneteenth Festival was originally organized in 2023 by Gloria Van Hof, a McHenry County Board member, noted Underground Railroad historian, and long-time activist, along with other community leaders.

The program will include a variety of speakers, musical performances by Kenny Davis & Band, Stev Walker & The Artistas Da Capoeira Woodstock, and vocalist Darlene Benton. Gloria Van Hof will have her new book for sale which details the history of the Underground Railroad in the region. Attendees may enjoy food trucks, local vendors, and family-friendly activities on the Square. The event is free to attendees and exhibitors.

Registration is required for exhibitors. Exhibitors seeking details, contact Jennifarre Davis 815-900-9752. For more information, visit: www.mchenrycountyjuneteenth.com.