In 1971 Milwaukee was one of the first northern cities to celebrate Juneteenth, the day paid tribute to the official end of slavery. The first festival was held with an estimated attendance of 3,000, seeing significant growth and changes over the years, but none like this years. Due to covid 19 concerns, the celebration which typically takes place as a huge parade, and street market, saw instead multiple events around the city.
One of the main celebration sites was nearly the same as its typical location, stretching down MLK drive, from Burleigh to near Center Street. In the heart of it was literally a display from the heart, as artist painted the words Black lives matter in illuminating colors, at the intersection of Mlk and Locust streets. Within a block of the the districts police station, it would serve as a beacon of hope, a reminder that no matter your situation as a African American you matter.
Sherman park and other locations celebrated across the city throughout the day, overall it was a peaceful and productive day, revitalizing the energy that perhaps hasn’t been seen since that very first time time in 1972. Thank you to all who were involved this year.
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