Saturday, June 17th was a big day in Decatur, and Neuhoff Media was proud to be part of the festivities celebrating Juneteenth.
The 29th annual Juneteenth Celebration commenced with a parade through downtown Decatur, sponsored the African American Cultural and Genealogical Society (AACGS). The parade featured various organizations, including the Big Boy Toyz car club, Walk It Like We Talk It, Old Kings’ Orchard, The Boys and Girls Club, black sororities, Human Rights Commission members, and even a portrayal of President Abraham Lincoln. Derrick Thaxton, co-organizer and AACGS advisory board member, emphasized the educational value of Juneteenth and the need to honor the sacrifices of previous generations.
The parade culminated in Central Park, where Senator Doris Turner and State Representative Sue Scherer announced donation of $25,000 to the AACGS, bolstering their efforts to promote African American culture and genealogy. The festivities at Central Park included performances by the First Church of God in Christ praise team, a hat show, and musical acts by Oliver Brooks, Dr. William McClain, and Theodore Fisher on the saxophone. A character actor portrayed Harriet Tubman, and the “Dynamic Threat” dance team entertained the crowd.
Continuing the celebration on June 18th, Neuhoff Media extended their support to the 3rd annual Juneteenth Multicultural Celebration at the Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater. Collaborating with the Decatur Park District, Park District Commissioners Stacey Young and Shelith Hansboro, and a dedicated volunteer committee the even’s theme was “We Are the Change.” The celebration featured cultural performances by the Smooth Times Band and the Dynamic Threat dance group. Attendees could also explore vendor booths, demonstrations, poetry readings, comedy acts, educational displays, and a variety of food options from local establishments.
Stacey Young, one of the Park District Commissioners, emphasized the importance of entertainment and education in the Juneteenth Multicultural Celebration.
For more on the 29th Annual Juneteenth Celebration, click here for the original story on NowDecatur.com.
For more on the 3rd Annual Juneteenth Multicultural Celebration, click here for the original story on NowDecatur.com.