🎉 Juneteenth Weekend Celebration
People took to the streets of Gastonia in celebration this weekend for the EbonyFest ahead of Juneteenth.
Article Credit: WSOC-TV
June 17th, there was a Health & Wellness Fair and luncheon sponsored by Highland Health Center, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, and Highland Neighborhood Association.
Later that day, the Gastonia Police Department led a conversation with youth during the Barber Shop Wrap Session in the gymnasium.
This was followed by youth luncheon, and AAU Basketball Game.
The EbonyFest Buy Black Pop Up Market and Food Truck Fair followed the AAU Game, hosted by Mr Ivey Barnes.
The 2nd Annual Gastonia EbonyFest Juneteenth Parade took place June 18th along Main Street. Mrs. Dot Guthrie, a leader in the community, led this year’s parade. Guthrie served on Gaston County’s Board of Education and helped found the area’s African American Museum of History and Culture.
WSOC spoke with Guthrie about the importance of remembering the past to help the future.
“Because it’s nothing lost; it’s our history; we’ve got to know our history. We have to teach the young ones coming up behind our rich history that this is our freedom day.” Guthrie said.
That evening, Charlotte African Drum and Dance Collective performed, as well as local artists, youth groups, and community advocates to share in the message of freedom, equality, and community for all.
To view the full video from this event, click here.