As the Juneteenth holiday approaches, organizers in Wichita, Kansas, are rallying volunteers to ensure this year’s festivities are a success.
Events Schedule
The annual Juneteenth celebration in Wichita kicks off with various events leading up to the official holiday on Wednesday, June 19. Here’s a rundown of the schedule:
- Thursday, June 13: The festivities begin with the Juneteenth Pageant.
- Sunday, June 16: The celebration culminates with the Gospel Explosion concert.
- Saturday, June 15: A highlight of the celebration is the JuneteenthICT Parade, starting at 10 a.m. The parade route begins at 13th and Hillside and ends at McAdams Park.
Volunteer Call
With expectations of around 1,500 attendees, including participants in the parade, organizers are seeking additional volunteers to ensure smooth operations.
Tadonne Neal, Chair of the Juneteenth Committee, emphasized the importance of volunteers, stating, We have roughly 40 volunteers. If we can get to that 150 number, that would be the most ideal. Neal highlighted setup and teardown as key areas requiring assistance.
Embracing History
Beyond the festivities, volunteering offers an opportunity to engage with history, particularly the significance of Juneteenth. This day commemorates the end of slavery in the United States and serves as a platform for educating the community.
Neal expressed the committee’s commitment to education, stating, We try to educate those that do not know anything about Juneteenth or those that do that want to learn a bit more, and that will be within our community.
Conclusion: Celebrating Freedom
As Wichita prepares to commemorate Juneteenth, volunteers play a crucial role in ensuring the success of the celebration and fostering a deeper understanding of its historical significance.
For those interested in participating or learning more about Juneteenth events in Wichita, contact the organizers via [email protected] or stay updated through local news channels.
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