Juneteenth celebrations throughout West Michigan

GRAND RAPIDS, Michigan (WOOD) – Celebrations are taking place throughout West Michigan to honor Juneteenth Day.

The Emancipation Proclamation was issued on January 1, 1863, but it was not until June 19, 1865, that thousands of slaves in Texas were notified of their freedom.

This day is now known as Juneteenth.

“We celebrate this day to remind everyone that under American law, everyone should have equal access to everything. We are all Americans,” said Crystal Scott-Tunstall, associate professor at GVSU.

In 2021, it became a federal holiday, but Scott-Tunstall believes it was 2020 that Juneteenth received more attention.

“The recognition of people staying home during COVID. Also the death of George Floyd. More people wanted to get involved, they were like captive spectators at home and wanted to see how they could help the African-American community,” Scott-Tunstall said.

In Grand Rapids, celebrations took place on Wednesday. A Juneteenth parade was held at the intersection of Eastern Avenue and Hall Street, ending at Dickinson Buffer Park. Crowds gathered in the park for an event that focused on African and black culture.

“We’re saying, look, we’re free. Go out there and show that you’re free. Show yourself, show what you know,” said Jewellyne Richardson, host of the Junior Juneteenth Celebration.

Although participants of all ages were invited, Richardson said the event was really about the children.

“It’s about making sure the next generation understands the importance of all the contributions of African people around the world,” Richardson said.

Muskegon also celebrated Juneteenth Day with an opening parade downtown to kick off the holiday.

“It gives us permission to be who we are as black people and to recognize the struggle and strength that we still have, and I just think it’s amazing that God has allowed me to still experience this,” said Erma Gordon-Gibson, who participated in the Juneteenth parade in Muskegon.

Richardson said the spirit of Juneteenth must extend beyond just one day.

“To unite, show brotherly and sisterly love and move forward,” Richardson said.

Wednesday night also saw the fourth annual Justice for All Juneteenth Jam at Calder Plaza in Grand Rapids, where people could celebrate black culture, art and businesses.

The event at Dickinson Buffer Park ends at 7 p.m. and the event at Calder Plaza ends at 8 p.m.