Laughter and learning filled the gymnasium of Emancipation Park as Browning Lucas stood before a crowd of children teaching them the history of Juneteenth and Emancipation Park.
Lucas gave a lively recount of the reasons why there is a Juneteenth celebration while informing the children about the very place they sat at. The children engaged Lucas in dialogue as well as answered questions about slavery and emancipation.
“I learned that Juneteenth was a day for everybody and for Black people to celebrate freedom to celebrate our ancestors that they have made it all the way and so far,” said 13 year-old, Sambriya Craig.
Sister Momma Sonya joined in as another host for the Children’s Fun Day that is a part of the Juneteenth activities sponsored by the Friends of Emancipation Park. She taught the pre- teens and teenager how to make peace cranes while giving them history on their heritage.
“I learned how to make peace cranes and how many years we have been free. I also learned about Emancipation Park,” said 12 year- old, Samiya Kerr.
The children colored, learned, laughed but most importantly bonded over a shared cultural tie that inside of an historical place purchased just for that exact reason.