Juneteenth commemorates AfricanAmerican Freedom every year on June 19th. It is the oldest nationally celebrated remembrance of the ending of slavery in the United States. First observed in 1865 in Galveston, Texas it is now celebrated across the states. “It is a day, a week, and in some areas a month marked with celebrations, guest speakers, and community gatherings. It is a time for reflection and rejoicing. It is a time for assessment, self-improvement and for planning the future. Its growing popularity signifies a level of maturity and dignity in America long over due. In cities across the country, people of all races, nationalities and religions are joining hands to truthfully acknowledge a period in our history that shaped and continues to influence our society today. Sensitized to the conditions and experiences of others, only then can we make significant and lasting improvements in our society.”
Angie Martinez
Tampa Bay Ethnic Community Examiner
WEST TAMPA WELCOMES Our New Sponsor 96.3 Community Radio (tampa) will co-sponsor in celebration of Juneteenth a 24hr. airing of African American, Latino, and Carribbean programming.
Our 9th annual Street Festival begins on June 15th at 4:00 PM., until 10:00 on PM June 20th. The 24 hour period will be diverse; for example, enjoy Jazz, Southern Soul, Latin music, and even poetry.
JUNETEENTH TAMPA
The West Tampa Alliance is embarking upon its sixth annual celebration surrounding dates when the slaves received words of their freedom. This effort was to honor accomplished citizens of West Tampa while expounding on African American history, specifically in Florida.
The state of Florida observes emancipation in a ceremonial day on May 20. In Tallahassee, Florida. Civil War reenactors playing the part of Major General Edward McCook and other union soldiers act out the speech General McCook gave from the steps of the Knott House on May 20, 1865. This was the first reading of the Emancipation Proclamation in Florida.
This program is designed to celebrate unity and harmony as a West Tampa event in its original concept; however, it has evolved in 2016 to pursue the whole community, county-wide event. This year’s goal is outreach to the other programs of celebration in Tampa, to include collaboration with WURK 96.3FM-Tampa, Rev. Willie Dixon of COACH Foundation.
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