Juneteenth Celebration brings community together
LANGSTON — Kids ran around the park laughing, some enjoying the moon bounce while others took a cooling splash down the waterslide.
The familiar smell of hot dogs and grilled hamburgers lingered in the air. The drums from live entertainment filled the streets.
Visitors from Oklahoma City, Guthrie and Edmond had driven to Langston on Saturday to enjoy the outdoor festivities of the Juneteenth Celebration.
Juneteenth is a predominantly African-American holiday that commemorates the June 19, 1865, announcement of the abolition of slavery in Texas. Its name is a mixture of “June” and “19th,” the date of its celebration.
“The Juneteenth is open to everybody, even though it’s an African-American historical festival,” said Patrick Franks, a library associate with Langston University. “It’s open to everybody who wants to come out and for all the races who want to come and visit with one another and enjoy all the different events.”
Franks said he believes the event helps bridge the racial gap in Langston, as well as the United States.
Activities for all
On Saturday, there was a plethora of activities, including a Kids Zone that featured a Smoothie Bike, a moon bounce and a waterslide, as well as music that catered to the whole family.
Langston resident Hardin Benjamin, who has lived in Langston since 1961, has been attending the Juneteenth Celebration for more than 10 years.
“It’s quite interesting. I enjoy the social activities, socializing with different people. The activities are like a picnic with outdoor dancing,” Benjamin said.
The Juneteenth celebration kicked off with a community softball game between Langston citizens and Langston University staff.
After the game, there was a lunch of hot dogs, chips and drinks.
A good feeling
Varie Maulellerby said she feels like Juneteenth is a great learning opportunity for herself and others.
“You can get educated and see how the community comes together as a family, and welcome them as family,” Maulellerby said.
“Along together, enjoying each other’s company leaves a good feeling and seeing others tell others about the fun they have,” Maulellerby said.
The celebration continued into the evening with live entertainment, featuring performances by DJ “Big E” of Oklahoma City, Harold Jefferson and the ShoBiz Band of Oklahoma City, and the Golden Langston Legacy Lioness Dancers.
“My favorite part is the camaraderie of everybody, just seeing everybody come together from the community of Langston and other communities, and just coming and everyone just having a good time,” Franks said.