Yes, it was a hot Wednesday afternoon, but hundreds joined in the Downtown Danville JUNETEENTH celebration in Temple Plaza; celebrating the moment in Galveston, Texas on June 19, 1865; when former slaves were officially told that yes, indeed, they were free. All ages were there, and loads of local leaders were there, including Danville’s Alderman Ed Butler.
(MIDDLE PICTURE) Pastor Thomas Miller greets the crowd before offering prayer shortly after 2 PM.
AUDIO: Yes, it looks wonderful. We’re just out here to have a great time; and communicate with one another. You know, hugging and embracing another opportunity for the African Americans and the whole Danville to get together as one.
Among the youngsters at Danville’s Juneteenth celebration was Christian Hoskins. He says it’s good for young people to realize that the generations before them fought through so much.
(MIDDLE PICTURE) State Senator Paul Faraci waves to Juneteenth celebrators.
AUDIO: I think it’s big. I think it’s really good. I think it’s good for youth to understand that we haven’t always come from an amazing place. It hasn’t always been good for black people. But I think it’s good for the youth to be at this event and know that there’s things that impact them.
After the 1 to 6 PM Juneteenth celebration at Temple Plaza, activities moved just west a bit on North Street to the Masonic Temple for the evening program; featuring discussion led by State Rep Brandun Schweizer and Danville Vice-Mayor Tricia Teague.
