City of Hattiesburg celebrates Juneteenth

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WDAM) – The Juneteenth festivities have started in the city of Hattiesburg with an annual event that’s been around for over 40 years.

The 42nd annual Juneteenth parade and festival is considered a success.

Despite the rain, the community pushed through to enjoy the holiday that commemorates the end of slavery. Event organizers say the event represents a lot of things.

“[It represents] freedom, responsibility, integrity, and community,” said Reverend Ray Smith, an event organizer of the parade and festival for 32 years.

Community. That’s one word that some people say is important when it comes to the meaning of Juneteenth.

“Juneteenth is a part of happiness for all kinds of people. It doesn’t matter what color,” said Taliyah Mock, Little Miss Hospitality for Forrest County.

“Juneteenth is about us as black people getting together and having fun and enjoying our culture,” said Joshua Arrington, a festival participant.

Some people got the chance to experience the annual festival for the first time.

Miss Hospitality for Forrest County says she’s grateful to be a part of the event.

“During this pageant, you really don’t see many girls like me, so for me and my Little Miss to be a part of this Juneteenth celebration is just awesome to me,” said Keliyah Moncree-Williams, Miss Hospitality for Forrest County.

Another first-time participant says it’s a beautiful thing to get to see the community celebrate Juneteenth.

“I absolutely love it. I will never miss it again,” said Roxanne Shelby, a festival participant.

Some festival goers had so much fun that they plan to come back to celebrate next year.

“This is my first year participating in Juneteenth, and I really enjoyed the time that I’ve been here, and I’m looking forward to next year,” said Wanda Brown, a festival participant.

The festival will be back on June 19th, the actual celebration day of Juneteenth.

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