The first Juneteenth celebration in Longmont offers a chance for the community to come together and reflect on what this holiday means, and learn more about the African American community in Longmont.
In November, Shiquita Yarbrough began planning the Juneteenth event. She experienced several obstacles, especially because she has never hosted an event this large. However, she thought it was crucial.
“The main reason to have this is to bring people together, bring community together, so that we can learn and understand different cultures. I feel like when you understand a culture you can understand who they are, and maybe have a little bit more compassion as to what that particular group has gone through, or maybe even going through,” Yarbrough said.
During Yarbrough’s opening speech for the event she urged the crowd to be a part of the example that she believes Longmont has set.
“The city of Longmont is making things happen, we are not just talking about it, we are about it. We are moving towards being the example that we want to see across this nation, so help us be the example, Yarbrough said.
Through this event Yarbrough is hoping to provide people with more understanding. MC, Tamika Robinson, implemented educational facts throughout the event to help people understand the importance of Juneteenth. The first ever Black Colorado Senator, Joe Neguse will be the keynote speaker.
“What I want to do is to pay respect to those who in the past fought for our freedom and paved the way for us, and then reflect on the progress that has been made,” Yarbrough said.
Caylen Robinson attended the Juneteenth event to learn more about Juneteenth and its purpose.
“I am here to understand and learn it from a better perspective from other people and see something new about it. For me, it is just a learning experience,” Caylen Robinson said.
Tamia Robinson is also using this event to add to her knowledge about her own culture.
“We are just here to learn more about what we already know and possibly spread awareness for other people. I just like learning new things about our culture everyday. It is intriguing to hear people talk about it,” Tamia Robinson said.
There is still a long way to go, according to Yarbough. However, a Juneteenth event is the first step in the right direction.
Education is not the only function of this event, it was designed to be fun and engaging for everyone. The event kicked off with a drumline, there was a fashion show from the first Black designer at Banana Republic, Prep Curry, who also sold his clothing at the event. The event closed with line dancing to get people up and moving, according to Yarbrough.
“It's just enjoying one another, understanding and learning about the culture of African Americans,” Yarbough said.
Ultimately Yarbough hopes that this event will foster more inclusivity and offer representation for young African Americans.
“The knowledge, the experience, that's what will make our community richer, not just rich in monetary value, but just in culture value and kindness and respect,” Yarbough said.
