"I celebrate Juneteenth to honor my ancestors' sacrifice for freedom and liberation," said Analise Harris, as she took in the festivities on Saturday in Denver.
The annual Juneteenth parade went forward despite the fact that the coronavirus pandemic has shut down most summer festivals. The music portion of the celebration was moved online and is planned for this Thursday June 18. But Saturday, people of many different ages and races packed the streets, with nearly everyone in a mask. The whole vibe was a celebration, with a lot of non-Black people out to support the community.
Sylvia Lambe, a public relations strategist, 53 said, “I am a part of the Juneteenth festival planning team. I can use my media skills to help. Juneteenth is like a mini carnival. People celebrating Blackness." (Brien Hollowell for Denverite)
Native Son, 34, said, “Juneteenth should be a national holiday recognized globally to propel our collective voice to encourage global solidarity amongst the collective We.” He supports abolishing the police. (Brien Hollowell for Denverite)
Dj and Rebecca Cline, 18, said: “This is important because it’s always important for the youth to have a voice and to realize the importance and power of our history.” (Brien Hollowell for Denverite)
DeAsia Edwards, 24, said: “I am here to speak up for all of the injustices. Black Lives Matter.” (Brien Hollowell for Denverite)
Thomas Booth, 59, said he came to the celebration to, “Support the last notice of independence from slavery after the emancipation proclamation.” (Brien Hollowell for Denverite)
Jenn Greenwood, 39, said: “I am here because what is happening in this country is horrifying. The community has given us so much and now it is our duty to be present and represent for all.” (Brien Hollowell for Denverite)
