The City of Federal Way celebrated its sixth annual Juneteenth event on June 19, 2025, honoring the historical significance of the day with a heartfelt ceremony. The gathering began with an invocation by Pastor Joseph Bowman, who emphasized the resilience and strength of ancestors who endured the hardships of slavery. The event featured performances of both the U.S. national anthem and the Black national anthem, setting a tone of unity and remembrance.

During the ceremony, city officials discussed the importance of continuing the tradition of recognizing Juneteenth, which commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. The city has made strides in this regard, having held its inaugural Juneteenth flag-raising event just three days after the council's recognition of the holiday. This year marks five years since the city began observing Juneteenth, a celebration rooted in the legacy of Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation of 1863.

In 2021, Washington State Governor Jay Inslee signed House Bill 1016, officially designating Juneteenth as a state holiday, a move that was soon followed by President Biden's declaration of Juneteenth as a federal holiday. Local leaders expressed gratitude to the community, particularly the Rogers family, for their role in fostering this important tradition.

The mayor and city council members proclaimed June 19 as Juneteenth in Federal Way, encouraging residents to reflect on the sacrifices made for freedom. The event concluded with a call to raise the Juneteenth flag, symbolizing the ongoing journey toward equality and justice for all. The community was also invited to participate in the upcoming opening of Conant Park, further emphasizing the city's commitment to fostering community spirit and engagement.