Alder Rocco DeMark of Racine 12th district

06/19/2026

Today, we join communities across the country in recognizing Juneteenth, a day that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States and honors the enduring significance of freedom, resilience, and hope.

Observed each year on June 19, Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, finally learned they were free, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued.

As we reflect on this important chapter in our nation’s history, we also recognize the generations of Black Americans whose strength, contributions, and leadership have helped shape our communities and our country. Juneteenth serves as both a celebration of progress and a reminder of the ongoing work to build a more just and inclusive future for all.

City of Racine offices are closed today in observance of the Juneteenth holiday.

06/17/2026

Today, we remember and honor Officer John Hetland, who was killed in the line of duty on June 17, 2019.

For more than 24 years, Officer Hetland served the Racine community with professionalism, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to protecting others. His loss was felt deeply throughout our city and beyond.

Seven years later, his memory remains a lasting part of the Racine Police Department and our community. We continue to honor his service, his sacrifice, and the example he set through a life dedicated to helping others.

Please join us in keeping Officer Hetland’s family, friends, and former colleagues in your thoughts today.

Gone, but never forgotten. 💙

06/16/2026

You may hear the tornado siren near City Hall midday today, June 15.

There is no tornado and no severe weather threat. The siren sounding is strictly for testing purposes.

06/11/2026

🎉 Join us for the 51st Annual Juneteenth Outdoor Celebration! ✨

Bring the whole family to the Dr. John Bryant Community Center for an afternoon of fun, culture, and community as we celebrate Juneteenth together.

Enjoy:
🏀 Basketball games
🎶 Live entertainment and performances
🍔 Food vendors
🎨 Children's activities
ℹ️ Informational booths
…and much more!

Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States and provides an opportunity to reflect on our nation's history, celebrate African American culture and achievements, and continue the pursuit of freedom, justice, and equality.

📅 Saturday, June 13, 2026
🕛 12:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
📍 Dr. John Bryant Community Center, 601 Caron Butler Drive, Racine

This event is free and open to the public.

For additional information, visit juneteenthracine.com or call the Dr. John Bryant Community Center at (262) 636-9235.

06/11/2026

Join us July 5th on Main Street for a community celebration featuring live music, family activities, and a locally catered All-American BBQ.

Unlike a traditional festival, your ticket includes dinner, dessert, drink ticket, entertainment, activities, and seating throughout the event. Upon check-in, guests will receive a wristband for meal service.

Reserve your tickets today! https://bit.ly/RacineGathers250
🎟️ Adults: $10 | Kids: $5 | Under 3: Free📅 July 5 | 3–8 PM | Main Street

06/06/2026

If you are available on Wednesday, June 10, at 5pm please join us at City Hall in Room 303. I am sponsoring a official communication requesting the Racine Police Department to provide an update on their current plans and strategies to address speeding throughout the city. Please stop by to learn about RPD’s upcoming efforts to curb this issue and help keep our community safe.

05/31/2026

05/27/2026

[Edited 06/04/2026] Mark your calendars for the big 250! 🎆🇺🇸🍉

Racine will host one of many community celebrations across the nation to honor America’s 250th birthday. Join us on July 5th in downtown Racine for an afternoon filled with music, great food, family fun, and community pride.

We’ll also be filling a community time capsule and awarding two local high school students with scholarships to support their college education.

General Admission: $10
Kids 3-12: $5 (2 & under: Free)

Let’s make history together. Get your tickets today! https://buytickets.at/cityofracine1/2228017