Library Partnership celebrates Juneteenth on June 16

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The Library Partnership Neighborhood Resource Center invites the community to celebrate history and enjoy fellowship with neighbors at the 3^rd Annual Juneteenth Celebration on Saturday, June 16, 2012, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 1130 N.E. 16 Avenue, Gainesville. The Juneteenth Celebration at the Library Partnership brings the community together with dance and music by local artists, The Library Idol competition, and motivational speakers from our community.

Juneteenth commemorates the end of  slavery in the United States.  It wasn’t until two and half years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, that it became official on June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers landed in Galveston, Texas with the news that slaves were free. With their newfound freedom many former slaves sought to find their family members, this is why so many Black Americans hold family reunions today. 

 The Library Partnership celebrates Juneteenth and Black History to foster a better understanding of history in order to plan for a better future. This event features dance and music performances by local artists including Africa 2000, J-Boyzz, Karen Johnson, the Lavern Porter Dancers, Revelation Band, Southland Spiritual Singers and Swag House Entertainment.

One of the highlights of the event is the Library Partnership “Idol Competition.” Area middle and high school students have auditioned for the opportunity to compete in this year’s Idol Competition. This Idol is modeled after the television show American Idol. It gives youth in the community the opportunity to showcase their talents.  Three people will perform in front of the Juneteenth crowd. First, second and third place prizes will be presented at the Juneteenth Festival on June 16, at the Library Partnership.

Local entertainers and support from area businesses and organizations make the Juneteenth Celebration possible. Special thanks to the Partnership for Strong Families, Burger King, Hungry Howies, Chick-fil-A, WUFT Channel 5, Job Corps, Crescendo Sound Studios and many other contributors.