COVINGTON, Ky. — Communities around the commonwealth celebrated Juneteenth Wednesday, June 19, which marks the anniversary of the end of slavery in the U.S.
There were celebrations on both sides of the Ohio River as people discussed their history.
It was important for Elaine Stubblefield to bring her grandchildren to the Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati.
“It’s important that they know their history, they know their story, they know that they come from a people who are strong and resilient, a people who endured and persevered in spite of difficulties,” she said. “It’s important for all of us, all citizens of the United States, to understand that what has occurred in this country influences and impacts us all.”
Over in Covington, the Northern Kentucky Community Action Commission partnered with St. Elizabeth Healthcare to host their own Juneteenth celebration at the Lincoln Grant Scholar House, which was a historically Black school.
NKCAC Executive Director Catrena Bowman said there’s been much progress in stressing the day’s importance, but more work remains.
“We were never taught these things in school,” Bowman said. “We never heard about Juneteenth.”
Community member Tracy Stokes said her specialty is helping people share their stories, which is important on Juneteenth.
“Your story has the power to break down barriers and inspire others to hope,” she said. “Juneteenth is a time for hope; it’s a time to tell your story, to learn about the stories of others and to really figure out, ‘How can I use who I am to help someone else?'”
The celebration in Cincinnati culminated in a “second line”-style march down the banks to the Ohio River, symbolizing when thousands of enslaved people crossed into freedom on the underground railroad.
