Photos and story by L. M. Land
Featured photo: Amora, 3 months old, will need to know her heritage and strengths as she evolves to adulthood. That is what Juneteenth is about, one generation teaching another the history of the past and supporting her future.
“Magnificent” is how DeWuan Robinson described the 53rd Juneteenth event in Flint. Robinson is chair of the Traditional Flint Juneteenth Committee and director of Black Lives Matter Flint.
“Thanks to all the attendees and sponsors who made this a success.” Robinson said. “We had tremendous
support and sponsors, and good attendance. We had 25 organizations all working together. One thousand
people were out to watch the parade; hundreds of youth were out for the Afrobeats Party downtown.”
The historical fact that on June 19, 1865 slavery officially ended must never be forgotten, because of what was endured prior to freedom day.
Therefore, Flint’s four week long Juneteenth celebration has been designed to educate and enrich our community. This year there were programs about repartitions, public health issues, a day at the lake teaching kids how to fish, historical war stories, scholarships, dinners and more.
The Juneteenth committee also knows how to have fun.
On the 19, the Community Gathering and parade at Max Brandon Park took place. Despite the rain, people still came to visit the vendors and enjoy live music by Gwen Hemphill-Pennyman. Attendees enjoyed music by DJ Gardell Harrelson. Vendors with good food and good people made it a success even in the pouring rain.
A State of Michigan proclamation from Governor Whitmer and Lt. Governor Gilchrist was presented to
Robinson by T. J. Brooks, regional area representative for Whitmer.
Miraculously, the rain cleared up just before the parade started, and the sun came out. The Hamady Marching Band began the parade. Many groups participated, some of which were Security in Ministry, Bethel United Methodist Church, Vehicle City Civil Rights Museum, Odyssey House, Flint City Bucks soccer team, True Light MBC and many more.
The streets were full of children running for candy thrown by The Flint City Wranglers Jeep Club.
The parade ended downtown, where the AfroBeats Party was held, and fireworks filled the sky in a beautiful
ending for the day.
The following days featured the last of the events. A Black Lives Matter Flint Special was held at the McCree
Theatre on June 20.
On Saturday, June 21 was the Cultural Center celebration with activities for children, music and more on the
Cultural Center lawn.
The last activity was held on June 22: a Juneteenth Family Reunion, held at Brennan Park in Flint.
Truly, when Dr. E. Hill De Loney brought Juneteenth to Flint 53 years ago, she birthed what is now one of the
best and most comprehensive Juneteenth Celebrations in our nation!
