Non-stop entertainment and gospel music is planned for the 11th annual Juneteenth Celebration event Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Martin Luther King, Jr. Park Community Center, at 1950 Lemon Avenue.
This year’s theme, A Renewed Spirit ! in Harmony, represents a building of bridges of understanding between different cultures, and encourages an exchange of information and ideas.
“This Juneteenth celebration promises to be a true community event,” said 6th District Councilmember Dee Andrews. “I am proud to be a part of events such as this that bring together people in entertaining and meaningful ways.”
The headline for this year’s event is gospel icon Tramaine Hawkins. She is known for her soprano vocals worship tunes. In 1968, the San Francisco native became popular when “Oh Happy Day” hit the radio.
Aundrae Russell, of “Spread the Word,” the No. 1 gospel show in Southern California, will serve as master of ceremonies for the celebration. Russell is the creator, producer and host of “Spread the Word” on radio station 102.3 KJLH. He also serves as the half-time voice of the Los Angeles Lakers.
Other performers at the event include: Tim Bishop Brown and the Miracle Mass Choir, Keyo, and the Second Samoan Church. Additional special performers and local church groups will complete the line-up.
The Juneteenth 2007 Celebration will include international food vendors, and crafts and merchandise vendors. There will be a special Health Pavilion with stress reduction services, massages, and information on physical activity and various health screenings. There will be farm fresh fruits and vegetables, and other handouts for the health conscious.
Kids can enjoy two spectacular children areas with games, rides, a petting zoo and much more.
College students can gather information about financial aid, housing, requirements for college and basic “student life” at CSU Dominguez Hills and Long Beach City College information booths.
Juneteenth Celebrations started June 19, 1865, when word reached the people of Texas that President Abraham Lincoln had signed the proclamation freeing slaves two years earlier, on Jan. 1, 1863. Jubilation over this news turned into annual celebrations and homecomings for those who had been separated from their families and friends. These annual celebrations became known as Juneteenth.
For more information on the Juneteenth Celebration, call (562) 570-4405.
