Experience Black History in Elizabeth, NJ
Honor Black culture, history, and resilience during Black History Month and throughout the year in Elizabeth, New Jersey.
During the colonial and early American eras, New Jersey participated in the institution of slavery. Enslaved Africans worked in homes, on farms, and in local businesses, shaping the economic and cultural landscape of the state even as their identities were denied and their stories overlooked. Throughout the years, their descendants continued to build community, safeguard traditions, and push for justice, forging a legacy that still echoes through Elizabeth today.
Across the city, community leaders, historians, and residents are working to recover these voices, honoring individuals whose names were lost, elevating untold histories, and celebrating the impact of Black communities across generations.
Historic Sites
The 1741 Project
Community activists involved in the 1741 Project for Truth and Justice researched the 1741 New York Slave Conspiracy and advocated for a memorial to three enslaved African Americans who were burned at the stake near the present-day Union County Courthouse. The Union County Board of Commissioners erected a historical marker on the courthouse grounds to honor their memory and acknowledge this dark chapter of history.
Visit: The memorial marker is located on the grounds of the Union County Courthouse, 2 Broad St, Elizabeth, NJ.
Annual Events
Juneteenth Celebration
Elizabeth’s Juneteenth celebration honors African-American heritage, freedom, and community. Expect lively music, dancing, local vendors, delicious food, and family-friendly activities as the city comes together to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States.
When: Juneteenth is observed nationally each year on June 19. Elizabeth’s celebration date may vary, check the annual event page for the latest details.
Black-Owned Businesses
First Republic Lounge & Restaurant
Owned by Stanley Neron—newly appointed Union County Commissioner, head of the Elizabeth Recreation Department, and former Board of Education President—First Republic Lounge & Restaurant draws inspiration from Haiti, the first nation in the Western Hemisphere to liberate itself from slavery. The restaurant celebrates over two centuries of Haitian independence through authentic cuisine that transports guests to the Caribbean.
Jerkies
Founded by Stan Gabriel, Jackson, Chef Jeff, and Sandy, Jerkies brings the authentic flavors of Jamaica and Haiti to New Jersey. This Caribbean fusion restaurant serves rich, traditional dishes including Jamaican oxtail and Haitian griot. Experience bold island flavors and support a local Black-owned business committed to sharing their cultural heritage through food.
Two Sisters Restaurant
Two Sisters Restaurant brings Haitian culinary traditions to Elizabeth with a menu of authentic island dishes. This Black-owned establishment serves up bold, satisfying flavors in every dish, showcasing Haiti's vibrant food culture.
Explore More
The 313+ Ancestors Speak Project
The 313+ Ancestors Speak Project is a community-driven effort to honor and remember the lives of over 313 individuals buried…
Haitian Restaurants
Experience authentic meals, inviting atmospheres, and an abundance of spices.
Juneteenth Celebration
Celebrate Juneteenth in New Jersey, this Sunday, June 22, 2025. Elizabeth's festivities start at 12:00 pm at the Elizabeth City Hall, located at 50 Winfield Scott Plaza.
Historic Sites
Founded in 1664, Elizabeth, NJ is one of America’s oldest and most historic cities.
Historic Heartline Walking Tour
Are your kids bored with history? Do they have a hard time finding it relevant?
Liberty Hall Museum
History comes alive at Liberty Hall Museum, where rich history seeps into this elegant historic house museum.
Related:
42 Broad St. Elizabeth, New Jersey 07201 (908) 354-0016 | Website
1003 Morris Ave. Union, New Jersey 07083 (908) 527-0400 | Website
11 Broad Street Elizabeth, New Jersey (908) 327-9078 | Website
1204 E. Grand St. Elizabeth, New Jersey 07201 (908) 355-3940




