The Juneteenth “Celebrate Freedom” will be held in Oberlin on Saturday, June 19, with a parade at 10 a.m. followed by a celebration at the Veteran’s Memorial Park.
Organizers are busy finalizing plans as the festival nears for this family-friendly event. No alcohol will be allowed. This is a free event and vendors will be present to sell drinks and food.
Lineup for the parade will begin at 9 a.m. at the Allen Parish Civic Center. All entries must be decorated in some form or fashion. Floats, cars, trucks, trailers, horses, bands, dance lines, etc. are welcome to participate.
After the parade, Temisha Victorian, one of the organizers, said the celebration will continue at Veteran’s Memorial Park, which is located next to the Allen Parish Library. She said there will be a prayer, Pledge of Allegiance, speakers on the history of Juneteenth, essay contest winners announced, a talent show for praise dancers, information stations, craft and food vendors and activities for the children. Everyone is encouraged to bring their lawn chairs to enjoy the events.
Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. Today Juneteenth commemorates African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement. It is a time for reflection and rejoicing. It is a time for assessment, self-improvement and for planning the future. The first celebration originated in Galveston, Texas, in 1865, as the African American Emancipation Day on June 19. It has grown to so much more today.
All Covid guidelines must be followed. Everyone is invited.
At its May council meeting, the Town of Oberlin recognized the upcoming festival by signing a declaration in favor of the Juneteenth celebration for its residents.
If you would like to learn more about Juneteenth, visit www.juneteenth.com/history.
