Benton Harbor holds 7th annual Juneteenth parade and celebration

Benton Harbor holds 7th annual Juneteenth parade and celebration
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BENTON HARBOR, Mich. (WNDU) – Several communities in Michiana are celebrating Juneteenth this weekend, including Benton Harbor, which held its seventh annual Juneteenth Parade and Celebration on Saturday afternoon.

“Today, we are just coming together with communities. Berrien County, Cass County, Van Buren County — all folks coming together to just show love and support and honor Juneteenth holiday,” said Diane Young, committee chair for Juneteenth Celebration.

The first African American Michigan State Trooper, Honorary Captain Jack Hall, was also honored with the key to the city.

Bennie Bowers Jr. says he always felt a connection to Benton Harbor because of its rich culture.

“And this is an example of it. For the Buffalo Soldiers to support Captain Hall in this event. The Buffalo Soldiers are the largest African American motorcycle club in the country, and so that’s just an example of when they knew they could do something to support Benton Harbor and Captain Hall, they made sure that they were here,” he said.

Young says the parade and celebration get bigger every year. This year, there are 55 partners.

“And this wouldn’t be possible without the many community sponsors and organizations,” she said. “And let me say we are so grateful to Whirlpool Corporation, the Benton Harbor Arts Association, and McDonald’s of Indiana. They are three of our sponsors, and we appreciate it so much.”

To volunteer or be part of next year’s Juneteenth Celebration, email Bentonharbor@juneteenth.com.

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