Juneteenth celebration set for June 13

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — The City of Vicksburg will participate in the celebration of Juneteenth Saturday, June 13 sponsored by the Vicksburg Juneteenth Heritage Festival Committee.

The annual event will be held this year at the City Park Pavilion located at 100 Army Navy Drive. 

The committee has a mission to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States with General Gordon Granger’s reading of General Order Number 3 which occurred June 19, 1865. The order changed the wording from “master and slave” to “employer and hired laborer”. This event spawned annual celebrations of freedom.

The purpose of the committee also formally acknowledges the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act which was signed into law on June 17, 2021 by U.S. President Joe Biden. The law ensures an annual, traditional, educational celebration of Juneteenth among the citizens of Vicksburg and throughout the nation. 

According to documents, the local Juneteenth celebration will be a day-long family affair for all ages. The history of Juneteenth and its historical importance will be highlighted. The event will feature live performances, storytelling, a drumming session and games. Music will include blues, gospel and pop. 

Mayor Willis Thompson will be on scene to address the public. 

Additionally, there will be numerous vendors to sell art, crafts and a variety of food. 

The event is free and open to the public.