LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — The Mosaic Templars Cultural Center is set to kick off the Juneteenth celebrations for the Natural State.
Juneteenth is a federally recognized holiday that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States.
The museum and cultural center’s director, Key Fletcher, said there’s a lot of events and fun activities planned for Saturday. She said the history of Juneteenth is a primary message she hopes Arkansans can focus on.
Juneteenth commemorates when African American slaves in Galveston, Texas discovered they were free June 19, 1865.
“The opportunity to be free meant that we had a chance to live our lives, to begin a future that was brighter for our children, for our grandchildren, for our great-grand children,” Fletcher said.
Fletcher said the observation of Juneteenth extends to the accomplishments of Arkansans including the Little Rock Nine, Daisy Bates, and Sue Cowan Williams.
“She’s a very pivotal character and figure in Arkansas history when we talk about moving the narrative forward, especially when it comes to woman,” she said.
According to Fletcher, there are more than 100 vendors that will take place with festivities including a 5k run and a music festival featuring R&B singer Mya.
“Not only is she an artist but she’s also a dancer, and when you talk about Gregory Hines, some of those other figures that are key and pivotal in history, and in culture and in dance,” said Fletcher. “She understands the importance of keeping that going.”
Fletcher said they expect a larger crowd than previous years and encoraged everyone to come out and celebrate during the free event.
The state has recognized Juneteenth for more than 100 years. Every third Saturday in June the state has designated to celebrate Juneteenth.
