MANKATO — This year’s 8th Annual Greater Mankato Juneteenth Celebration on June 19 moves to a new location, but has the same mission of continuing to work toward equity and justice in our communities. And as always, it is free to attend.
The reason for the move is at least two-fold, said Mo Alsadig, CEO/executive director of sponsoring organization Greater Mankato Diversity Council. With a later start to organizing, they realized the event would fall on a Thursday during June when Greater Mankato Growth holds Songs on the Lawn at the civic center plaza, the celebration’s traditional site.
More emotionally charged, however, is the events that have happened locally and around the nation regarding the cancellation of international student visas. It seemed a logical way to draw attention and support for their organization’s long-time partner, Alsadig said.
Although many details need to be worked out — such as speakers and community organizations and vendors who can still register to participate — because the move to the Centennial Student Union Open Mall has been finalized, the council wanted to get the word out to people. Sponsors also are still being sought.
“Since we have a partnership with MSU as well, and given the current political atmosphere that we live in, we reached out to them,” said Alsadig. “They said they’re more than happy to host any event that the diversity council is planning.”
At the same time, Alsadig stressed that the diversity council is non-partisan. Events like Juneteenth, at their core, are to bring all people together with the hopes of prompting constructive discussion to resolve differences. Not only is everyone welcome to participate, but they are encouraged to do so, he said.
Because Juneteenth is a national holiday, the university will be closed and parking will be available in the pay lot on the Stadium Road side of the Centennial Student Union, for sure, at no cost. So, perhaps the first disconnect that could be smoothed over is between community and the college campus, Alsadig said.
The year’s theme of “Honor the Past, Fight for the Future” is a continuation of last year’s theme, “Black History is American History.” It’s about telling the whole story of the United States.
“I believe that education is in jeopardy when it comes to talking about omitting some of the history that played a significant role in the creation of the U.S.A. So, it’s a part of our messaging (that) education has to continue. That’s what started the whole idea of the Greater Mankato Diversity Council,” he said.
The day will begin at 3 p.m. with the Freedom Walk, starting at the corner of Stadium Road and Warren Street. It honors the continuing flight for liberation. When it arrives at the open mall, likely around 3:30, the full event commences and runs until 6 p.m., he said.
This change to a later start hopes to include many people who must work that day, allowing them to come to campus to enjoy local speakers, live music, family activities, and a Black-owned expo showcasing goods, services and creativity from across the region.
In addition, there will be food and an ice cream truck (and maybe a coffee truck), community vendors and space to connect, organizers said.
For more information about participating, visit mankatodiversity.org/celebrate-juneteenth or email info@mankatodiversity.org
Check out was real simple, can't wait for the tote bag