Plans being finalized for Juneteenth celebration

SIKESTON —  Sikeston’s annual Juneteenth celebration is less than a month away, taking place June 14-16 in Lincoln Park, with additional activities planned throughout the weekend.

Taneshia Pulley, one of the event organizers, said the fourth annual Juneteenth Celebration will kick off on Friday, June 14, with the Black Excellence Ball at the Copper Still from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Pulley said the ball is free, and attendees must be 25 or older.

Pulley said Juneteenth is the longest-running African American holiday commemorating the abolition of slavery in the United States.

Juneteenth was originally known as “Freedom Day,” but through collaboration and discussion, it was combined with June and the 19th, resulting in Juneteenth.

“One of the main highlights of Juneteenth is the community coming together and spreading awareness and positivity throughout the community,” Pulley said. “We work together to raise money each year to help students with a scholarship also.”

Pulley said Juneteenth commemorates African-American independence, which is important to honor.

“It’s extremely important to know, study and advocate for your history,” Pulley said.

The Juneteenth Fest at Lincoln Park will take place from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, June 15.

“Saturday there will be a live band from St. Louis, ‘TashaB and the Gents’ and the (Historically Black College and University) HBCU-style band,” Pulley said. “We will also have horse rides, bounce houses, face paint, games, children’s activities with Moxie Way from Memphis, an educational tent and vendors.”

Also, something new this year is the presence of SEMO Funky Foam and Bubbles.

“We also will have more bounce houses and activities than we have had in the past for everyone to enjoy,” Pulley said.

The Gospel Explosion will take place from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, June 16 in Lincoln Park.

“This year, the gospel explosion will be hosted by TD Robinson and Samuel Pulley,” Pulley said. “We have local singers and singers even traveling in from different areas to perform.”

According to Pulley, all are welcome and encouraged to attend the celebration.

“If you’re coming, make sure you bring chairs to enjoy the event,” Pulley said.

Pulley said organizers are selling Juneteenth T-shirts this year, with all sales going to a scholarship fund. To purchase a T-shirt, please contact Pulley at 573-230-9158.