Salt Lake City Celebrates Juneteenth with Community Events
SALT LAKE CITY — On Thursday, Salt Lake City hosted a vibrant Juneteenth celebration, marking the significant end of slavery in the United States. Darlene McDonald, a participant in the festivities, emphasized that this day, also known as Freedom Day, symbolizes a moment of jubilee and community unity, commemorating the day enslaved individuals in Galveston, Texas, learned of their liberation on June 19, 1865.
The celebration began with speeches at the State Capitol, followed by a march to The Gateway. McDonald expressed gratitude for the city’s acknowledgment of this crucial holiday and praised Mayor Mendenhall for officially recognizing the event at the City County building, encouraging other leaders to follow suit.
The festivities also highlighted Utah’s rich Black history, dating back to the early pioneers of the 1800s. Everett Lavall Spencer underscored the inclusive nature of Juneteenth, inviting all community members to partake in the celebration. Jesse West, another attendee, reflected on the holiday’s deep significance, stating that "nothing encapsulates freedom in our country quite like Juneteenth." The spirit of unity and celebration was palpable, as residents came together to honor this historic day.
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