The NAACP Chicago Far-South Suburban Branch is inviting community members to attend its Community Forum & Juneteenth Celebration on Saturday, June 20, from noon to 2 p.m. at the Irwin Center, 18120 Highland Ave.

The event will focus on civic engagement, voter education, registration, access, participation, community empowerment and the spirit of Juneteenth, the observance marking the freeing of enslaved people at the end of the American Civil War.

Community leaders, public officials, educators, faith leaders and residents will come together to discuss issues affecting local communities. Local vendors will also be on-site.

The forum will highlight the branch’s Civic Ambassador Program, which prepares volunteers to provide accurate voter information, support voter registration and education efforts, and promote civic participation throughout the community.

“This event reflects Dr. (Martin Luther) King’s enduring call to service and civic responsibility,” said Gary Dingle, president of the NAACP branch. “By educating and empowering young people, we are strengthening democracy and ensuring our communities remain informed, engaged, and heard.”