BAY MINETTE, Ala. (WKRG) — Dozens of people marked Juneteenth early in north Baldwin County, despite a sweltering day.
From the songs, to the dancing, there was no escaping the heat at the grounds of the Douglasville School of Arts and Recreation for the annual Day of Freedom Juneteenth Celebration.
Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in America; when formerly enslaved people were told about their freedom two years after the emancipation proclamation.
“It’s important to recognize the history of a significant event in this country, the ending of that event in this country,” said President of the Mutual Aid Benevolent Association Chris Norman.
The annual event was also a chance to bring people together around Bay Minette and this part of Baldwin County.
“Like it because it’s a coming together of community,” said lemonade vendor Deandra Chapman. “People.
“Of course, we live in the same community, but we don’t see each other on a daily basis. So it’s just nice to get together as a family, as a community, and enjoy the celebration, enjoy the independence and the freedom.”
It’s a message meant for the next generation.
“It’s not for me,” said Gene Thompson, watching the festivities from a lawn chair under the shade of a tree. “I’m thinking about mom. Thinking about my grandkids, young kids coming up behind me, you know.”
