Juneteenth Honors Black Pioneers of North Dakota

Juneteenth shines a spotlight on forgotten Black pioneers in North Dakota, starting with Benjamin Hayes—the first chef at the state’s oldest courthouse, who went on to become a custodian, jailer, and restaurateur. His story, honored in a free Jamestown event at the historic 1883 courthouse, reveals a diverse American West often overlooked in rural history. Organizers aim to celebrate not just buildings, but the people who made them vital community centers. Across North Dakota, including Bismarck’s Second Baptist Church event, these Juneteenth gatherings weave together the rich, often-missing narratives of Black settlers who helped shape the state’s past—and ensure their stories are remembered now and for generations. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/91a4adcca77f682e