Observed on June 19, Juneteenth commemorates the day in 1865 when 250,000 enslaved African Americans learned that they were free in Galveston, Texas, by executive decree.
Five years ago, on June 17, President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Act, making it the country’s 11th federal holiday.
Eureka Park was transformed into a lively Juneteenth Family Reunion last Saturday with music, food, cultural performances, vendors from Black-owned businesses and much more. Hosted by the Roanoke Cultural Collective, the event brought the entire community together, regardless of one’s background, ethnicity or race.
From the Patrick Henry and William Fleming High Cheer Squads to the Youth Joyful Praise Choir, when the scheduled acts performed, the crowd cheered wildly.
While it is impossible to pinpoint an exact number, event organizers say the number of attendees was easily in the thousands.
Dozens of vendors participated in the celebration. Among them were SERCAP Inc., Bus Riders of Roanoke Advocacy Group, Roanoke City Sheriff’s Office, Roanoke Arts & Culture, New Horizons Healthcare and the Roanoke City Democratic Committee.
“Buses are for everyone, and no shame should be attached for using them,” Kate Wooley, Vice President of Bus Riders of Roanoke Advocacy Group, said. “We take all complaints and concerns from riders and bring them to Valley Metro and city government. Our public meetings are held the first Thursday of every month at the Gainsboro Library.”
The recognition of freedom was also a huge opportunity for candidates running for city council and local, Black-founded entities.
Creative Asya is a small business that offers unique art and beauty products by blending creativity and elegance. “To see so many people show love and do their part in keeping the money flow in the community was an amazing feeling,” co-founder Aaliyah Preston said.
Said Che’rie Braxton of Dope Hike Series, “Our organization is both an adjective and an acronym. Dope stands for ‘Discovering the Outdoors through Personal Experience.’ We also go on dope hikes; we see dope views and we always have a dope time.”
The aroma that Polly’s Soul Food Kitchen and other food vendors carried in the air attracted a long line of purchasers.
“Had I known this is what the Juneteenth Family Reunion is all about, I would have made the trip from my North Carolina home last year,” Nicole Smith said. “I loved all the varieties that were offered. I made sure to support several Black-owned businesses.”
Considered the epicenter of Black history in Northwest Roanoke, the Eureka Recreation Center offers multiple spaces to gather, play and study. The largest single-project investment ever in the city’s parks and recreation department, which officially opened on June 15, cost approximately $14.4 million.
“Roanoke residents often define the city by its pride, heart and togetherness. The timing of this event could not have coincided better with the opening of the new center,” Chris Williams said.
Whether attendees showed up for the music or community camaraderie, it can all be traced back to the same purpose. The success of this year’s Juneteenth Family Reunion practically ensures that more will happen in the coming years.
