HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WDAM) – Folks brought the energy to Vernon Dahmer Park Wednesday evening for this year’s 41st edition of the Juneteenth Celebration.
The Hattiesburg park was full of people looking to enjoy games, food and live music.
“The community is together,” said Latrell Knight. “We’re all moving together in peace and harmony out here.”
That unity can be seen all over, with families and friends standing together sharing laughs and children making friends.
“I’m just having fun,” said V.J. Maskell. “All you’ve got to do is have a great day. No fighting. No fussing. Just have a great day. It’s Juneteenth.”
But the celebration isn’t just about fun.
Several folks at the park sported Juneteenth clothing in a way that represented what organizer Rev. Ray A. Smith said the event was truly about.
“It’s important that this day be recognized as the African-American Fourth of July,” he said.
Smith that the Hattiesburg event was created by his mother back in 1983.
“I was moved to take it up after she did,” Smith said. “God has blessed us to go another 31 years.”
The week-long celebration wrapped up with a fireworks show in the park.
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Check out was real simple, can't wait for the tote bag