Large crowds gather for Juneteenth celebration in Little Rock
The Juneteenth celebration held in Little Rock, known as Juneteenth in Da Rock, attracted thousands of individuals coming together to commemorate the freedom, culture, and history of the Black community. This event, now in its 16th year, is organized by the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center and took place on Ninth Street, featuring an array of vendors, food trucks, a live music stage, and a kid zone along the street. The festivities kicked off with a 5k run at 7 a.m. and concluded with captivating performances by Elle Varner and October London.
Key Fletcher, the director of the Mosaic Templars center, referred to Juneteenth as an essential American holiday, encompassing a blend of history, music, culture, and joy. The event aimed to honor the past while keeping an optimistic outlook towards the future. One of the notable additions this year was the expansion of the kid zone across an entire block, offering various activities such as bubbles, inflatables, and crafts. In the children’s gallery at the center, costumed characters were featured to engage the young attendees.
Furthermore, a Health and Wellness Village at the center provided information and guidance on physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Additionally, a walkthrough exhibit showcased Black history and artifacts from Arkansas and other parts of the United States, fostering a deep connection with the culture and heritage of the Black community. Fletcher expressed her desire for every individual attending to find a personal connection that resonated with them, emphasizing that each person’s story is an integral part of the Juneteenth narrative.
Arkansas began recognizing and celebrating Juneteenth in 2005 following the approval of Act 2101 by the state Legislature. The festival gained further significance when it was declared a federal holiday on June 17, 2021, by then-President Joe Biden. This recognition marked the end of slavery in the United States and became the first new federal holiday since Martin Luther King Jr. Day in 1983. Celebrations of Juneteenth have deep roots in Arkansas, dating back to the 19th century with the first recorded emancipation celebration in 1863.
Reflecting on the history and culture of Arkansas, Fletcher highlighted the importance of acknowledging the hardships and struggles while celebrating the progress made over the years. The choice of West Ninth Street in Little Rock for the Juneteenth festivities held specific significance as it has been a prominent hub of Black businesses, community, and spirit in downtown Little Rock since the immediate aftermath of the Civil War. The vibrant atmosphere and rich historical associations of West Ninth Street added to the essence of the Juneteenth celebration, creating a unique and meaningful setting for the event’s commemoration.