Juneteenth is here
Sun Village preparing for a jam-packed party
Sun Village, Calif.—It is that glorious time again, when Black people across the nation celebrate the date, when Texas slaves heard about their long-awaited freedom. June 19 marks 145th anniversary of the day of African American emancipation. It is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. Juneteenth is now a day of reflection and empowerment as Blacks recognize their accomplishments and successes.
The Antelope Valley is buzzing with anticipation as the day for their Juneteenth celebration draws closer. Every year since 1992, Sun Village has attracted hundreds of people from across the valley and beyond to enjoy Juneteenth festivities. This year is expected to be no different.
A three-day party and educational weekend kicks off Juneteenth on Friday, June 18 in Jackie Robinson Park. At 3 p.m., families will begin to enjoy skits, magic, and fun with karaoke and show-stopping performances.
Saturday will be filled with entertainment and education, beginning with drill team presentations, a basketball tournament, and a journey through African American history. Saturday’s activities begin at 10 a.m.
“We will start every day with a prayer from our grand marshal, Rev. Tally,” said James Brooks, Juneteenth celebration committee member. “It’s a nice, friendly environment and a family-oriented event.”
He says no other celebration in the valley brings Black people together like this one.
Music presentations will include a tribute to the late great Lena Horne. Performances include the Groove Committee, local conscious and gospel rappers, spoken word artists, Krump dancers, and plenty more.
Sunday is Gospel day, beginning with a service in the park at 10 a.m. The community will get the chance to share their thoughts, feelings, and spiritual inspiration.
A free black and white photo exhibit will be on display in the park atrium throughout the weekend.
“People think it’s just one big party, but it’s more than that,” Brooks said. “People have given their lives for this. All our brave ancestors who took all they did just so we could live; we have to show them that what they did was worth it. They created someone who is destined for greatness as they anticipated, dreamed for, wished for, prayed for. We have to live up to that.”
Admission, parking, entertainment, and education are free. Local food and retail venders will be scattered throughout the park as well. The park is located at 8773 E. Avenue R, Little Rock.
In commemoration of World Sickle Cell Day, the African American Blood Drive and Bone Marrow Registry for Sickle Cell Disease Awareness (African Americans for Sickle Cell Disease Awareness, or AA4SCDA) is holding an event at the Vermont Square United Methodist Church on Sunday.
The celebration will include Father’s Day speakers on the subject of “A Father’s Love: Journey From Sickle Cell to Marrow Transplant for My Child” and shared perspectives on family members diagnosed with sickle cell.
Juneteenth Celebration. Open to all ages, this Juneteenth celebration will include live entertainment, local talent, antique cars, games and prizes from 12-5pm at Mills Park 1340 E. Dimondale Drive, Carson. Free. For information, contact Councilmember Lula Davis-Holmes at (310) 629-9158.
“Sheenway Sankofa,” a newly created mural by artist Charles Freeman, was unveiled last Saturday at Sheen Educational Center at Heritage College-Ready Academy High School at 10101 S. Broadway St. in Los Angeles.
Congresswoman Maxine Waters played host during the event, which also featured Zadonu, the West African Cultural Drum and Dance Ensemble, a “Juneteenth” dedication, youthful singers, a special appearance by Jennifer Lee Pryor (representing mural honoree Richard Pryor), jazz violinist Lili Haydn, and more.
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif.—A free family day at the Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD) this Sunday from 12 pm to 6 pm, offers visitors an opportunity to celebrate Juneteenth and Father’s Day in an enriching setting, thanks to the generosity of Lennar Urban.
“Lennar Urban is excited to support a fun and community-building event like Free Family Day. We’re proud to partner with such a national leader like the Museum of the African Diaspora in honor of Juneteenth and Father’s Day,” said Kofi Bonner, regional vice president of Lennar Urban.
Tony Hicks, founder of the Black Parent Union, is an educational consultant specializing in parent and community involvement, who has worked in the public schools for more than 24 years. He has worked in the classroom, serving on councils/committees, coordinating the activities of parent liaisons, conducting workshops, training staff, hosting a cable television show, and leading instructional audits.
