I REMEMBER WHEN… JUNETEENTH WAS A CELEBRATION
I was 30 when the Juneteenth Celebration came to Tulsa, Oklahoma. The atmosphere leading up to that first celebration was electric for weeks leading up to June 19. The bands, the food, the people—it was the best atmosphere. Young and old, all ages in between came out to Greenwood on June 19th. I couldn’t walk 10 feet without seeing someone I knew.
The whole gathering was about listening to music and coming together to celebrate our freedom as a people. There was a feeling of togetherness. No stress, no worry, no concern for safety. Sunday was gospel music day. It was incredible. All the bands featured famous/up-and-coming musicians.
For the next decade, the Juneteenth on Greenwood became a family summer favorite. A children’s play space was added. Vendors with their arts and crafts and African clothing all became available. Children were running and laughing. There was the smell of BBQ. Fresh-squeezed lemonade. Cotton candy, balloon animals, and music, music, music. Juneteenth became more diverse, but it still remained a celebration of freedom where everyone came together.
I was very excited to hear Juneteenth returned this year. I no longer live in Oklahoma, but I have fond memories of the early days of Juneteenth. 🖤
I love remembering the families coming together. The churches came together. The mayor would speak. Our religious leaders would speak. I always left feeling a part of something bigger than myself. It was a huge community hug.
It is hurtful to hear how the celebration ended this year, with fighting, gunshots, and injuries. I was saddened in a deep place in my soul.
I strongly encourage us sisters to do what we can to make our corner of the world better. I am still hoping we can use the best part of ourselves to make changes.
