Juneteenth celebrated in downtown Uniontown with community pride, reflection

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Sisters Legacy, 4, and Nyeelah High, 6, made bracelets as part of Fayette County Unity Fest held in downtown Uniontown on Thursday. Children were encouraged to use the colors from the African flag – red, which represents the bloodshed and sacrifices for freedom; green, the lush land and natural wealth, and black, for the people of Africa and their resilience.

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Sisters Jayla, 15, and Ja’Kayla Edwards, 16, are shown with their mother, Latoya Fulton, at Thursday’s Unity Fest held in downtown Uniontown. The three were representing their business, “Hanging with the Kiddos,” which specializes in making inclusive and customizable party favors.

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Downtown Uniontown was alive with activity Thursday as residents gathered to celebrate Unity Fest in honor of Juneteenth, a holiday that commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. The holiday is intended to mark the day in 1865 when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce the end of the Civil War and the freedom of enslaved people.

“This holiday is about the freeing of the slaves along with a unity aspect,” said Terry Vassar, president of One Voice One Community, whose nonprofit, along with East End Community Center, were responsible for Thursday’s events.

Juneteenth is recognized as a federal holiday, celebrated across the nation to honor the end of slavery and to reflect on the ongoing journey toward racial equality.

Dorris Refaie of McClellandtown emphasized the educational importance of Juneteenth.

“This is about learning from our history,” she said. “These lessons aren’t always taught in school, but they’re vital for everyone to understand, not just Black Americans, but all Americans.”

DJ Sean Nice, who was responsible for the festival’s music, echoed those sentiments, emphasizing the holiday’s role in fostering unity.

“Juneteenth is about bringing people together,” he said. “It’s about recognizing our shared history and culture. It’s an opportunity for everyone to see, learn and appreciate the contributions of Black Americans and others who have helped shape this country.”

Participants like Destiny Molter highlighted the importance of community and history.

“Our ancestors helped build America,” she explained. “Juneteenth reminds us of the progress we’ve made and the unity we can find in our shared stories. It’s about being part of a community that values diversity and growth.”

The celebration also served as a platform for self-expression among youth.

Sisters Jayla, 15, and Ja’Kayla Edwards, 16, shared how the day allows their generation to celebrate their identity and culture openly.

“We’re happy to express ourselves and be proud of who we are,” Jayla said. “It’s about breaking stereotypes and showing that Black people can have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else.”

Ja’Kayla added her hopes for the future, emphasizing understanding and respect among all cultures. “I want the next generation to really understand Black culture, but also other cultures,” she said. “We should all come together and respect each other’s differences.”

Local organizers said the event included cultural displays, music, and educational activities, all aimed at celebrating Black heritage and promoting unity. As part of the nationwide observance, community members reflected on the significance of Juneteenth – a day that continues to symbolize resilience, freedom and hope for a more inclusive future.

Since becoming a federal holiday in 2021, Juneteenth has gained recognition in nearly every state, with many designating it as a paid or legal holiday.