Joy over Juneteenth celebrations in East Bay dampened by death of Willie Mays

PLEASANT HILL – As people celebrate Juneteenth Day, many also remember Willie Mays and what he meant to the black community.

People gathered in Pleasant Hill on Wednesday to reflect on those who paved the way for African Americans today.

It is only the second annual Juneteenth celebration in Pleasant Hill. QuyNitta McDade was there with her husband and two sons. She couldn’t believe it when she heard about May’s death. “The first thing I said was, ‘Oh no. Not Willie!'”

McDade not only admired Mays from afar, she also works at a law firm that he frequently visited.

“When he came, he was so down to earth,” she recalled. “He knew the gravity of the situation and bore the burden of his legacy, but he didn’t treat people as if he was above them.”

While Jackie Robinson was the first, the “Say Hey Kid” continued to ensure that the field remained open to black baseball players.

“I play shortstop, second base, center field, pitcher and first base,” said Matthew McDade.

“When you see Willie and the amazing things he has done, my kids – my little boys – know they can do it, too,” QuyNitta said.

This Juneteenth, the message couldn’t be clearer. Lisa Sanders and her daughter Maliyah are celebrating the progress that has been made and the work that still needs to be done.

“I am my ancestors’ wildest dream,” Sanders said. “It’s like the things my ancestors didn’t have the opportunity and freedom to do… everything they fought for in the past, we can do today.”

QuyNitta McDade had a message for Mays.

“Rest in peace, Willie,” she said. “We will always remember you – and never forget you!”