For such a small place, the Island has a surprisingly diverse people — a native tribe, a long-established African American community, waves of Portuguese speakers — and so for its annual Juneteenth celebration, the Martha’s Vineyard NAACP has asked several Islanders to share their interracial experiences here.

Juneteenth has its beginnings some 150 years ago. When President Lincoln freed the slaves by signing the Emancipation Proclamation, all states, except Texas, freed their slaves. It took Texas two and one half more years to make free men out of their slaves. When this happened, the celebration was called Juneteenth.

All are welcome to join the Vineyard’s Juneteenth program on Saturday, June 11, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Vineyard Haven Senior Center at 34 Pine street near the school. There will be games for all ages and door prizes. The event is free if you bring a potluck dish or $5 at the door.

The MV Youth Leadership Initiative will make a presentation on student health, and newcomers to the Vineyard, Allie and the Krunch, from Washington D.C., will be singing two original songs.

For details, call 508-627-8850.