Chicago White Sox Celebrate Juneteenth Against Cardinals

CHICAGO –– The White Sox are honoring Juneteenth, the national holiday that recognizes the end of slavery in the United States, during Thursday's doubleheader against the St. Louis Cardinals.

"Obviously the historical significance is really important," White Sox manager Will Venable said pregame. "Really glad that Major League Baseball takes the time to give it attention, too. So it's a good day. Cool that MLB celebrates it."

Several events are planned at Rate Field, centering on Black expression through music, art and storytelling.

• A pregame musical performance by After School Matters BandWith
• Anthem and “Live Every Voice and Sing” performance by Daryn Alexus
• A patio party spotlighting non-profits serving Black communities 
• A ceremonial first pitch by Tonika Johnson, representing Englewood Arts Collective
• Concourse displays educating fans on Black liberation milestones

Micah Johnson, a White Sox infielder in 2015, has also collaborated with Amateur City Elite (ACE) players to created Juneteenth hat patches, which will be worn by ACE during the holiday weekend. The White Sox created ACE in 2007 to help reverse declining participation in baseball among African American youth.