Every June 19th, the city of Fayetteville, Georgia gathers to honor and celebrate Juneteenth; a momentous day in history that marks the national emancipation of African American slaves throughout the United States. Showcasing true unity, comradery, and inclusivity, members of the community joined together for an illuminating celebration put on by the Fayette Historical Society along with the NAACP of Fayette County and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Celebrating Juneteenth in Fayette

The Fayette community was proud to come together in celebration of Juneteenth, which has become a federal holiday. Thanks to the Fayette Historical Society, the Fayette County chapter of the NAACP, and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, members of the community were able to learn about this important day, singing the “Black National Anthem” and hearing testimonies from prominent members of the Fayette community, fostering feelings of unity, comradery, and connection. The event also featured food vendors, live music, and a variety of activities for all ages. It was a beautiful day filled with education, entertainment, and meaningful conversations about the significance of Juneteenth in American history. Many attendees expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate and honor the contributions of African Americans to our country’s history. The event organizers hope to continue this tradition in the future and make it an annual celebration in Fayette.

The keynote speaker for the celebration was Mayor Ed Johnson, who highlighted the importance of the holiday, while also celebrating the inclusivity and diversity that Fayetteville embraces every day.

June 19th marks an iconic moment in history when Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger issued an order to the state of Texas that all slaves were free under the Emancipation Proclamation. This day is often referred to as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, commemorating the liberation of the estimated 250,000 Black people enslaved in Texas who were the last in the country to hear the news of their freedom from President Abraham Lincoln’s proclamation. Mayor Johnson proudly declared that this day is still celebrated in Fayetteville and serves as a reminder of the inclusivity and diversity the city prides itself on. Juneteenth has become a recognized holiday in many states across the United States, and efforts are being made to make it a national holiday. It is a day to celebrate Black culture and history and to reflect on the ongoing struggle for racial justice and equality.

In 2021, President Joe Biden signed legislation making Juneteenth a federal holiday, honoring the significance of this day in American history.

Juneteenth is an important holiday in the Fayette community that fosters feelings of connection and celebration of freedom. Recognizing the commemoration of this day is an example of Fayetteville’s commitment to standing with freedom and diversity for all. Thanks to prominent members, agencies, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and Mayor Ed Johnson, the Fayette community again was reminded of unity and its mission to embrace different cultures and heritages on this special day. The festivities included a parade, live music, and traditional African American cuisine. The event provided an opportunity for people of all ages to come together and learn about the significance of Juneteenth in American history.