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What is Juneteenth?Often called the African-American Independence Day, Juneteenth originated in Galveston, Texas, where on June 19, 1865 -- almost 21/2 years after President Abraham Lincoln had issued the Emancipation Proclamation -- Union troops arrived with the news that the war had ended and slaves were free.Richmond observance"Juneteenth, A Freedom Celebration," featuring an urban-wear fashion show, panel discussion and performances by Elegba Folklore Society and hip-hop group Dead Prez, is planned for Friday from 7 to 11 p.m. at the Greater Richmond Convention Center. The event will continue Saturday at the Manchester Dock on Maury Street, beginning at 3 p.m. with American Indian opening ceremonies, followed by an African dance community class. A torchlight walk along the Richmond Slave Trail will start at 8 p.m. For details, call (804) 644-3900. |
PETERSBURG -- Retired Air Force Lt. Colonel Howard Baugh reminded a diverse group of people gathered yesterday at the Petersburg National Battlefield visitor center about the big advances America has made in the quest for racial equality.
At an event commemorating Juneteenth, the day that celebrates the end of slavery, Baugh -- one of the original Tuskegee Airmen in World War II who served during a time when servicemen were segregated -- said times have changed.
"There is still racism and discrimination in this country. We still have people who are still fighting the Civil War, who are still hoping the South will prevail. But we are going the other way now," he said.
"Things have changed. We can go anywhere we want to."
It goes back to that June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, with news that the Civil War had ended two months earlier and that slavery was over..
The day has since become known as Juneteenth.
"We ask ourselves why do we want to celebrate Juneteenth in Virginia if slaves were already free here?" said Treska Wilson-Smith, the event organizer. She said although slaves had been free in Virginia, Virginians should remember that others remained enslaved in Texas. "Our friends were not free; therefore, we were not free."
Wilson-Smith said she hopes the celebration helps people remember where they come from.
This was the third annual Juneteenth celebration in Petersburg. Other speakers included Rep. J. Randy Forbes, R-4th, and Petersburg Mayor Annie M. Mickens. Activities varied from speeches to musical performances, and speakers remembered the struggles of African-Americans and called for the promotion of tolerance and the celebration of freedom.
Ian Davis, 12, who participated in a flag ceremony, said he hopes the historical event is remembered more often.
"I think this should be celebrated daily," Ian, a Cub Scout said. "It's our history showing us that one step can make a life-changing event."
Contact Luz Lazo at (804) 649-6058 or llazo@timesdispatch.com.
