Juneteenth started in Galveston, Texas, where the news of the Emancipation Proclamation arrived on the 19^th of June, 1865. This year in Brooks County, Georgia, Juneteenth will be celebrated on Saturday the 18^th of June from 8AM to 3PM at the Brooks County Courthouse.

According to WCTV:

Brooks County Juneteenth Festival. The mission is to restore, explore and preserve African-Indian history in Brooks County Georgia. The purpose is to honor, cherish and acknowledge the sacrifices our ancestors suffered and endured to allow us the blessings we enjoy today. The theme is “Honoring Our Past to Celebrate Our Future”. Anyone interested in being on committee, participating as vendor, performer or display an exhibit should call.

More details from Fannie Jackson in a facebook note dated 11 June 2011:

FEATURING…Mr. James “Jack Hadley” Founder Jack Hadley Black History Museum from Thomasville, GA; Buffalo Soldiers National Ninth & Tenth (Horse) Cavalry Association from Thomasville, GA; and presenting “Organized Konfusion Contemporary Fusion Free Style Band” directed by C Mark G Grant, II from Valdosta, GA; Greater Valdosta Metropolitan Praise Dance Team featuring Ms. Bree-Naria Williams (10 years old); Ms. Alacia Reynolds-Up & Coming Gospel artist out of Adel, GA; + MANY more!!

A DAY OF COMMUNITY HEALING & FELLOWSHIP; Musical medleys; Artifact display; Heritage booths; Educational displays; Storytelling by Griots; GAMES* Bounce House*Checkers*Bingo*Comedy Zonks*Kinnect Tech Champ*

BRING YOUR LAWN CHAIRS & BLANKETS; SIT DOWN; PUT YOUR FEET UP, SET A SPELL…IT’S A FAMILY CELEBRATION…This event is sponsored by the Brooks County Juneteenth Society, Inc. a non-profit organization formed to work in harmony with our Community, Chamber of Commerce and Destination Brooks to restore, explore, and preserve African & Indian History in Brooks County. We promote tourism and good will for Brooks County and the Greater Valdosta Metropolitan Statistical Area. Proceeds benefit community restoration, preservation and locan non-profits such as the Boys & Girls Club, All 4 Kids Future, Inc., South Georgia Foster & Adoptive Parents Association, Inc., Hilltop House, Inc., + many more. Call 229-269-3248 for further information.

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING AND UPLIFTING OUR COMMUNITY!! Voncell Pat Vance, CEO; Andre Gibbs, President. We love you!

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