Join the 4th Annual Juneteenth Caribbean Heritage Festival in St. Louis to celebrate freedom, heritage, and the vibrant culture of the Caribbean.
James Tucker invites you to an unforgettable experience at the 4th Annual Juneteenth Caribbean Heritage Festival: Missouri Gateway to Freedom and Justice. Sponsored by Africans Rising Together 2063, this family-friendly event is set to take place at the Cricket Field in Forest Park on Saturday, June 15, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The festival promises a day full of enriching activities, inspiring performances, and educational opportunities.
The day kicks off with the Commemorative Walk for Freedom and Justice, offering both 1-mile and 5-mile options. Participants are encouraged to arrive by 7:00 a.m. for the opening program at 7:30 a.m., with the walk commencing at 8:00 a.m. Snacks and water will be provided along the route to keep walkers energized.
Throughout the day, attendees will be treated to a variety of performances and speeches. Community leaders will deliver inspiring messages, while contemporary performers, gospel choirs, African drummers, dancers, and drama presentations will keep the atmosphere lively. The festival also features a noonday prayer session, creating a moment of reflection and unity.
The Children’s Village offers fun for the younger attendees with face painting, bouncy houses, games, and activities. Meanwhile, the Walk Through History open-air museum provides an educational experience, highlighting the stories and legacies of African and Caribbean American freedom fighters.
Additional zones include the Veteran Zone, offering information about veteran organizations, and the Senior Zone, equipped with shaded tents for relaxation and music enjoyment. The Education Zone features a mobile museum showcasing Juneteenth’s history, local history, and historical Black Colleges and Universities. Other zones focus on health and employment, providing valuable resources and information.
A variety of vendors will also be present, offering food, crafts, and other goods, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, commemorates the day in 1865 when Union soldiers, led by Major General Gordon Granger, arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce the end of the Civil War and the freedom of enslaved people. This announcement came two months after Confederate General Robert E. Lee’s surrender and marked the enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation issued by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863. In 2021, Juneteenth was officially recognized as a federal holiday in the United States. Missouri has acknowledged this day since 2003, designating June 19 as Emancipation Day.
Join everyone at the Cricket Field in Forest Park on June 15 for a day of celebration, education, and community at the Juneteenth Caribbean Heritage Festival. Don’t miss this opportunity to honor the past and celebrate the progress toward freedom and justice.
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