LYNCHBURG, Va. (WSET) — Despite the heat, dozens gathered at Miller Park to commemorate Juneteenth, marking the end of slavery in the United States.
The event celebrated the day in 1865 when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce the freedom of enslaved people, two years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation.
Dr. Keith R. Anderson, president of 8Dimensions Wellness Pathways, emphasized the significance of the day. “We can highlight a day that highlights the contributions of African Americans and the advancement to overcome the resilience of a people,” he said.
The 25th annual Lynchburg event featured local vendors, songs of freedom, and historical reenactments.
Gloria Braxton, a member of Links Incorporated, stressed the importance of acknowledging history. “Our history has been hidden, it has been whitewashed, and it is important!” she said.
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Attendees expressed the importance of Juneteenth as a U.S. holiday. Temika Younger said, “It’s celebrating the time that slaves were freed and everyone was given the opportunity to live life freely. Everyone was given the opportunity to pursue happiness. That should be a holiday!”
James Arnold, another attendee, reflected on the ongoing journey toward equality. “Though we’re not where we want to be, to look forward to achieve a parity with others, and go beyond those that laid the foundation for us,” he said. His grandson, James Arnold III, added, “I’m very grateful that they fought for my freedom or I would not be here today.”
Participants noted that African Americans still face injustices today, but events like the Juneteenth festival help raise awareness of past struggles and educate others to prevent history from repeating itself.
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