BURGAW, N.C. (WECT) – For the second year, the 1865 Society of Pender County hosted a Juneteenth Festival at the historic Pender County Court House.
Juneteenth is a federal holiday typically celebrated on June 19 that marks the end of slavery in the United States. On June 19, 1865, the Union Army traveled to Galveston Texas, and told the remaining African American slaves they were free.
According to Karen Malloy, the festival was held to share African American history and educate others with the end goal of unity for the entire community.
Malloy is the executive director of the 1865 Society of Pender County, a non-profit aimed at preserving Black Heritage.
“In the current state of our country, where we see so much division. I think it’s actually wonderful that we can be unified. Not only is it about freedom, it’s about unifying everybody,” said Malloy.
The event hosted over 40 vendors and educational opportunities. People had the chance to view exhibits from the African American Heritage Commission and local museums.
“It’s real important that we share our history. Not only the history but the contributions we have made to this country, we help build this country often times it just gets ignored,” said Malloy.
People also had the chance to enjoy live music and dance performances throughout the day. Representatives from the North Carolina Colored Troops were in attendance sharing information about how colored troops played a role in ending the civil war and sharing news of the end of slavery.
“It’s completely what we are about, honoring the sacrifices of the United States colored troops during that timeframe because we fought for our freedom we were not given our freedom we fought for it and we’re proud of that fact,” said David Theroith, with the North Carolina Colored Troops.
The group travels across the state from New Bern. Theroith says he is happy to share history with the community, especially on Juneteenth.
“It really warms my heart because Juneteenth was not celebrated everywhere a few years ago like it is now so it’s great to see our heritage being honored and being shown,” said Theroith.
The festival kicked off at 10 a.m. The event ended with a gospel concert that started at 4 p.m. and featured a performance from Grammy award-winning artist Donnie McClurkin.
“We are better together. I think festivals and even focus groups coming together and learning about who we are rather than who we are not is wonderful and this is an opportunity for that to happen,” said Malloy.
Copyright 2024 WECT. All rights reserved.