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Waco, TX (FOX 44) — McLennan County NAACP celebrated Juneteenth with a parade followed by live music and free food.

“So the NAAC does this annually, and it’s usually right after the Centex African-American Chamber of Commerce parade,” says Ashley Royal, owner of Foot Prints Dance Company.

This is the time for the community to come together, share a meal, make memories and celebrate. They even had a voter registration table set up.

They feed everyone, you get a free meal when you come out. We’re currently playing bingo, so it’s just a family fun event for everyone to come participate in is free of charge. All put on by the McLennan County NAACP,” says Royal.

Juneteenth marks the day when slaves in Texas were emancipated. Ashley expresses why it is important to celebrate.

“This is just a reminder, you know, to continue to progress, to continue to be, you know, community oriented and you don’t have to be black to celebrate Juneteenth,” says Royal.

She says, it’s a great way for everyone to celebrate Junteenth.

“That’s what that’s the spirit that all of us here in Waco, all of us that are involved in different community organizations, that’s what we want people to do to join in the celebration with us,” says Royal.

The community member shared laughter and fun at bridge street plaza in celebration of such an important day in history.