Another Juneteenth celebration courtesy of Young Men United (YMU) is in the books for the 23rd year after Saturday’s event at the old Bernard School property.

June 19, the actual day of the holiday, was the day the last enslaved people in the country were informed of their freedom. This day came about two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed into law on Jan. 1, 1863, freeing slaves. News traveled slow in those days, however, and it was not until June 19 that the far-flung residents of Texas and other states would learn of the freeing of slaves.

Since, Juneteenth has become a day for both reflection and revelry, aiming to appreciate African American culture and foster community togetherness rather than strife. In 2021, President Joe Biden adopted the day as a federal holiday.

“This holiday shows that history is still here in a sense, but we can overcome that history. We don’t have to stay in that history, we don’t have to repeat that history, because we can make a better history,” Bella Richmond said. “If you go back into the times of slavery, that wasn’t a good history, but it is history. That’s something that we have to live through and understand. With understanding it, then we can make the current time a better place. Take out the hatred, take out the envy and jealousy — most of all, the hatred — and let’s replace it with love and unity.”

Saturday’s celebration was filled with live music from the Real Deal Band out of Murfreesboro, food, craft vendors and bonding among those in attendance. Scholarships were given to four deserving Warren County Highschool students: Cauriel Patillo, beside Thomas, Ashlyn Terry, Kierra Crinchlow and Ranna Takahashi.

“It’s been a great turn out today, I think it gets bigger every year. Seeing the unity in the community makes everything we do to prepare worthwhile,” Richmond said. “As with any event, it’s challenging to make sure everything falls into place like it’s supposed to.”