5th Annual Junteenth Celebration Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, is an annual holiday celebrated in the month of June in the United States to commemorate the ending of slavery. June 19th marks the day in 1865 when word reached African Americans in Texas that slavery in the United States had been abolished. More than two years earlier, on New Year s Day, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln had issued the Emancipation Proclamation. Delivered during the American Civil War, this proclamation ordered the freeing of all slaves in states that were rebelling against Union forces. The proclamation had little effect in Texas; where there were few Union troops to enforce the order. News of the proclamation officially reached Texas on June 19, 1865, when a Union general backed by nearly 2,000 troops arrived in the city of Galveston. The general, Gordon Granger, publicly announced that slavery in the United States had ended.
Commissioner Samuel B. Ings hosted the 5th Annual Juneteenth event last Saturday, June 21, 2014 at the Dr. James R. Smith Neighborhood Center. During the event, Commissioner Samuel B. Ings stated, The observance of Juneteenth is about the journey and achievement of African Americans. It is a story of pride, resilience and determination that will always be of historical and spiritual importance. It is a reminder that together, we can overcome all obstacles in our path.
Juneteenth is recognized by Americans everywhere as a symbolic milestone in our journey. It is a time of community, family, fellowship and relationship. People of all races and ethnicities recognize the wonderful opportunity to come together in appreciation, reconciliation and commemoration. Strengthening the ties that bind us should always be our objective. Unity and peace, our goals. In the year 2015, we will celebrate the 150th Year Anniversary of Juneteenth. Next year, I am planning a bigger celebration and would like to encourage all to join us in this significant milestone in our history.
Radio personality, Cora Miles Jefferson of CMJ Resources & Development Group, Inc. served as Master of Ceremonies. She hosts The 411 Radio Show on WOKB every Wednesdays at 1 p.m. Cora Miles Jefferson
The Young Blacks In Action, Inc. s drum line and dancettes performed exciting drill music. Standing Ovation Talent Group, Inc., Kingdom Generation Church, African Heritage Alliance Center and El Bethel Temple of Jesus at Orlando provided fellowship through the art of dance. Young Blacks In Action, Inc.
Comedian, Ms. Ruby warmed up the audience with her delightful comedy. Upcoming Rap group, Tha Yungin & Blanco performed original selections. Jasmyn Woods recited an essay she had written on the history of Juneteenth. Devery Broox recited poems he had written and Ms. Florida State, Amanda Wamynyima and Dr. Sydel LeGrande, our local family practitioner, spoke on the relevance of Juneteenth. Comedian, Ms. Ruby Devery Broox
The day was filled with music, dance, drumming, poetry, comedy and plenty of food. We would like to thank the Dr. James R. Smith staff, volunteers and sponsors who have made the Juneteenth celebration a success! Tha Yungin & Blanco Lead Event Coordinator.. Sound Engineer........ Venue Orchestrator..... Sylvia Wills, Aide to Commissioner Samuel B. Ings, City of Orlando, District 6 Woodrow Woody Wills Marlon Po Poteat, Regional Center Manager Dr. James R. Smith Center