‘Juneteenth baby:’ Celebrations get underway at Medical District Park

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) – The 32nd Annual Memphis Juneteenth Festival kicked off Friday at the Medical District Park.

Dr. Telisa Franklin, the president and CEO of the festival, said celebrations start prior to Juneteenth because the festival also celebrates Black music month.

“Juneteenth baby! Memphis Juneteenth, we’re celebrating of course 32 years in the City of Memphis. We kick it off at the top of the month because we’re also celebrating Black music month,” said Franklin. “This gives an opportunity for us to have a great time, enjoy great music, and really learn more about our culture.

Franklin said people heading out can expect live music with over 30 musical acts, local and out-of-state vendors, and activities and events.

“We have a great event happening Saturday morning, the men of impact, which will be a conversation men will be having with Commissioner Charlie Caswell, Commissioner Lowery, community advocate Will Richardson, brother Mohammed,” said Franklin.

Franklin said Juneteenth is important because it’s the oldest known celebration for the end of slavery.

“I always tell people, you may not have shackles on your hands, you may not have shackles on your feet, but you have shackles on your mind you’re still enslaved. So, this is a very significant day that many of us need to understand that we are free, and we are free to be who God called us to be. We are free to embrace ourselves,” said Franklin.

The event is taking place on June 6th and June 7th. Franklin said admission is free and it goes from 10 a.m. through 10 p.m.

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