Residents enjoy inaugural Juneteenth event
CLEARWATER — Area residents, many decked out in African garb, recently gathered for the first “Juneteenth and the African Cultural Connection” in a prominent corner of Clearwater.
The complimentary family-fun event connecting Juneteenth to its African roots was held at the African Cultural Center, Chief Jabo Village. Families and friends enjoyed food, African music and art while children jumped in the bouncy house, caromed down the slide, got their faces painted and cartoons drawn.
Organizers of the event included Dr. Julius Okuboye, owner of the event’s location; O’Neal Larkin, co-founder of the Clearwater Community Golfers; Gerald Vickers, leader of Clearwater Masons Lodge No. 42; and Pat Harney, representative of the Church of Scientology Flag Service Organization.
“After I retired as an orthopedic surgeon, I decided to keep this property, which was once my medical office and parking lot,” Dr. Okuboye said. “I want to use the center to teach youth about African culture and reconnect them to the mother land. Today is the start of that dream.”
Drumline of the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Police Athletic League beat out the rhythms of Africa and Tampa Bay actor Donald Dowridge performed a rendition of a poem urging Americans to stay strong and build the nation together.
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