—By Samuel Fortilus, Westfield State University Summer Intern—Juneteenth is, unfortunately, a lesser known holiday that exists in the United States. Taking place on June 19th, it honors the day that the Emancipation Proclamation finally extended its metaphorical reach to the deep South of Texas and allowed all of those whose freedom had unknowingly been in their grasp for two years to finally take hold of it. This is the true day that the people kept in chains and shackles were allowed to break free and the process of being recognized as full-fledged citizens had begun.
Before attending the Juneteenth celebration in Springfield, MA, I had somewhat of an idea of what the holiday was about through quite a few Internet searches, but I had absolutely no idea how it would fit into what The Brethren Community Foundation had in mind when organizing this event. This event introduced those gathered to what might have been known and educated us about things we hadn’t thought of through numerous examples that reinforced history that’s often skimmed over by the general masses.
At 4 PM on June 16th, I made my way over to the Raymond A. Jordan Senior Center and was immediately greeted by a large crowd and a variety of vendors selling t-shirts with slogans such as “prayer is temporary, victory is forever,” treats and food items, jewelry, and much more. The atmosphere felt much friendlier and more like a family gathering as opposed to the fast-paced hustle and bustle found in typical marketplaces. Past the row of booths was the dining hall, which was now rearranged to fit around the black stage that sat in the back center of the room. Taking my seat, having arrived a little early, I sat patiently and waited for the event to commence.
Juneteenth In Springfield
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After a short greeting from the President Henry Payne, of the Brethren Community Foundation, the Pledge of Allegiance, and a quick lesson reviewing the history we’d come to celebrate, the event was underway. Live entertainment was one of the things highlighted when I had asked about the event weeks before and, truthfully, I can say each performance was captivating and engaging. Performances ranged from numerous choir groups singing songs of praise, to short story readings with Dr. Shirley J. Whitaker, Ms. LaDawn Owens and several bands providing great covers to well-known songs. There was even a play titled “Break Every Chain.” Although many performances took place while we sat, the Brethren also took time to include guest speakers, such as Mayor Domenic J. Sarno and former State Representative Raymond A. Jordan, as well as to award several youth with the annual Raymond A. Jordan Scholarship for academic achievement.
During a break between the events, I was able to speak with Mr. Jordan and hear his thoughts about the event, especially because it was being held in the center with his name. Without skipping a beat, he informed me that he was quite proud of this event, as it was their 13th year, and went on to emphasize the event’s significance. Mr. Jordan also expressed that he hopes for support, a sense of fellowship, and a newfound emphasis on this holiday from the community.
After the event ended and as I write this article, I can say that I have a newfound pride and happiness, having learned something important about a part of history that gets skimmed over. I hope the Brethren and all others who realized the significance of Juneteenth succeed as they continue to bring light to this holiday where an enslaved population finally took their first steps into being recognized as living, breathing free people with wants, needs, desires, and rights.
