Juneteenth: Celebrating Freedom and Reflecting on Progress
Juneteenth, also known as Emancipation Day, Jubilee Day, Freedom Day, and Black Independence Day, is a deeply significant holiday in the United States. Celebrated on June 19th, Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when the last enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, learned of their freedom—over two years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation. This day is a testament to the resilience and strength of the African American community, and a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and justice.
Juneteenth as a National Holiday
On June 17, 2021, President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law, making Juneteenth the 12th federal holiday. This recognition honors the significance of June 19th and acknowledges the broader struggles and contributions of African Americans throughout U.S. history. This year, Juneteenth will be observed with two events in Davie County, both free and open to the public.
“Jubilee – Songs & Praise” – June 19th
Davie County Senior Services and the Davie Chapter of the NAACP present “Jubilee – Songs & Praise” on Wednesday, June 19, at 2 p.m. at the Senior Services Main Campus, 278 Meroney St., Mocksville. The program will feature local choirs, praise dancers, and oral readings. All ages are welcome. Refreshments will be served.
“Uniting for a Better Tomorrow” – June 29th
The second event, “Uniting for a Better Tomorrow,” will be held on Saturday, June 29, at the Masonic Picnic Grounds, 201 Poplar Street, from noon to 6 p.m., rain or shine. (The rain location is the Brock Gym).
Heritage Alliance Project (HAP), Mocksville Tourism & Development, and Davie County have partnered for an afternoon of music, vendors, and FREE kid-friendly activities, including a train, bounce house, inflatable obstacle course, balloon art, and face painting. Eric & K’s BBQ, LLC (soul food), Jason’s Italian Ice, Crazy Dog (authentic Mexican), Charlie’s Soda Shoppe (diner food), and others will serve delicious eats.
Special Events
- The Bridge Choir and Pastor Justin Blue – 1:30 – 2 p.m.
- Tabernacle United Church of Christ Choir – 2:30 – 3 p.m.
- New Life Apostolic Church Youth Choir – 3:30 – 4 p.m.
- DC Cruisers car show
- Wayne-Sanderson Farms hiring event
“Juneteenth is like the 4th of July. It’s a preservation of our history. While we don’t want to forget, we also don’t want to stand still. We want to continue to move forward, which is why “Uniting for a Better Tomorrow” is our theme,” said Sharon Anderson, executive director of HAP, which is spearheading the event. “Collaboration is a big part of what we do, and we are excited to partner with the Town of Mocksville and the County on this event.
“This is a community-wide event, not an African American event. It’s an opportunity to bring the entire community together. We encourage everyone to come out and fellowship together and get to know each other,” added Priscilla Williams, HAP’s recording secretary.
Heritage Alliance Project (HAP), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has a mission to collaborate with various entities to facilitate the preservation of history and advocate for beautification and safety in the East Depot/Mill Street community. Its purpose is to honor the past, address the present, and embrace the future.
For information about sponsorships or to reserve exhibit space, email Heritage Alliance Project at info@heritageapdc.org. For more details on the Heritage Alliance Project, visit heritageapdc.org.
Juneteenth stands as a powerful symbol of resilience, freedom, and the ongoing quest for equality. As a celebration of African American culture and a time for reflection on the journey toward justice, it reminds us of the importance of history in shaping our present and future. Whether through joyous celebrations, educational initiatives, or advocacy for change, Juneteenth continues to inspire and unite communities in the shared pursuit of freedom and equality for all.
