An expanded Juneteenth Celebration that included entertainment, food, vendors, information, and awards attracted a crowd to Laura Leake Park in Centralia on Saturday.
General Chair Malaya Downey noted the event could not grow without the support of the community and the hard work of the committee that spent the last six months preparing for the day. Downey notes Juneteenth is more than just a one-day event.
“The three pillars of Juneteenth are economic development, community development, and overall just community fellowship. So with economic development, we want to do everything we can to support currency and commerce flow through our city. That’s why it is free for all vendors to set up. Community Development. It’s about utilizing this park to its full potential and advocating for Laura Leake Park so we can have even bigger and more events here. Just fellowship. I want to bring different people from the community here to be able to network, get the resources they need and just basically get to know everyone on an entirely different level.”
And Downey feels the best way for that to happen is around food, family, and good music.
The Swahili Institute of Chicago was in attendance to provide African Dancers and Drummers. It is headed by 1961 Centralia High School graduate Simba Tayeri.
“The community is thriving. It has always been a great community and to see people coming together providing for their youth, that is great”
Hot air balloons and the Retro Boogie Band from St. Louis joined the festivities as the event moved into the evening hours.
Seven community members were honored for their commitment to the community as well as Downey for her efforts on behalf of Juneteenth and other activities in the community.
The Centralia City Fire Department flies the large US Flag over the Schnucks large shopping card and car show at Juneteenth. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
Vendor Row at Juneteenth. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
A large crow enjoys Bingo, one of the many activities and games. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
