This was two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation had formally freed slaves in the Confederate states. Juneteenth symbolizes African Americans’ long journey toward freedom, equality, and civil rights. This holiday is more than just a historic milestone; it is a celebration of resilience, culture, and the enduring spirit of the black community.

Board President/Founder of BLP, Marlene Lindsey states, “Juneteenth is an important date on our calendar year, not only for people of color, but for everyone to understand. Juneteenth represents freedom, unity, and perseverance for our entire country. As we keep pushing towards a world where diversity, equity, and belonging is a priority, let’s take a moment to reflect on this holiday and what it truly means for all people.”

Modern Juneteenth celebrations include parades, music, soul food, and educational events, such as Ivy Tech Richmond’s Annual Juneteenth Celebration. This community celebration serves as a platform for unity, celebration, and gathering in the Wayne County community. The Black Legacy Project was the first recipient of the first Juneteenth award at Saturday’s celebration. The award was created for individuals/organizations that are dedicated to improving the community.

Juneteenth is now recognized as a federal holiday in the United States. It provides an opportunity for people of all backgrounds to learn about African American history and the contributions of the black community.

Board Member Nathan Hogg states, “I joined the Black Legacy Project Board because I wanted to make sure that the younger voice was being heard. I hope that my presence in the organization is inspiring other young people to trailblaze and push for greater things. I encourage everyone to take this day and learn about the rich history of the holiday and the many achievements our local leaders made, and the many obstacles they had to overcome.”

Juneteenth is not just a celebration of the past, but a call to action for a better future for all.