Buck’s Backyard

Buck McCullum Hall Mural Project

The 11th Annual Juneteenth Community Celebration

The partnership between the Lee County Black History Society, Dunbar Festival Committee, and the African Coalition of Southwest Florida to host the 11th Annual Juneteenth Community Celebration at Roberto Clemente Park in Fort Myers demonstrates the collaborative effort to honor and celebrate the historical significance of Juneteenth.

Juneteenth, which was officially recognized as a federal holiday in 2021, has a long-standing history dating back to the 1800s. It

commemorates the day when enslaved individuals in Galveston, Texas, learned about their freedom, which came more than two years after President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation was issued.

The Juneteenth Community Celebration serves as an opportunity to educate the community about the importance of this event in African American history. By hosting the celebration, the event organizers aim to recognize the struggles, resilience, and achievements of African Americans, as well as promote unity and cultural appreciation.

Additionally, during the event, Lee County students received CARSS (Celebrating & Recognizing Students' Success) Awards for their outstanding academic and community service accomplishments. This highlights the importance of education and community involvement in empowering young individuals and acknowledging their contributions to society.

The Free Juneteenth Community Festival is a valuable occasion for individuals to come together, learn, celebrate, and remember the progress made in the fight for freedom and equality.