Print

Email story

Comment

Letter to the editor

In the name of history, respect and a good time

Juneteenth celebrates freedom and encourages self-development. A local event also makes time for good food, music and comedy.

By SANDEE DAVIES
Published June 10, 2007

"The people of Texas are informed that in accordance with a Proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free."

So read Gen. Gordon Granger's Order No. 3, resulting in the founding of Juneteenth, the oldest known celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States.

Though it was 2 1/2 years after President Lincoln's signing of the Emancipation Proclamation, which became official Jan. 1, 1863, little had changed in Texas.

On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers, led by Maj. Gen. Granger, landed at Galveston, Texas, with news that the war had ended and that the enslaved were now free. With the surrender of Gen. Robert E. Lee in April 1865, the forces were finally strong enough to overcome the resistance. Granger went on to become the governor of Texas.

Celebrations were held in most states and in several foreign countries, and Juneteenth became an official state holiday in Texas in 1980.

Today, Juneteenth celebrates freedom while encouraging self-development and respect for all cultures.

Here in St. Petersburg, the 16th annual celebration has experienced a new boost as longtime resident Faye Dowdell takes over the helm, with promises of a day of education, food and fun for all ages.

"This event is significant, because by knowing our past it allows us to grow in the future, " Dowdell said.

The lineup includes a historical program and carnival rides, plus a large variety of food and sweets.

A pampering and wellness pavilion features beauty makeovers, massage and health screening. There will also be vendors, arts and crafts, community service providers, crime prevention information and a career fair.

Entertainment runs all afternoon and is hosted by comedian Steffon Vann. Performers include Spiritual Precept, Everyone's Youth United, Kayla Hill and the Gerald Veasley Band.

If you go

Juneteenth activities

What: Juneteenth Celebration, commemorates the end of slavery.

Where: Campbell Park, 601 14th St. S, St. Petersburg

When: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday

Details: Activities are free; refreshments will be sold. Call 743-6792 or visit the Web site at www.juneteenth-stpete.org.

[Last modified June 9, 2007, 20:58:51]