BENTONVILLE, Ark — Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of slavery ending in the United States. This is the first year Northwest Arkansas Community College (NWACC) held a Juneteenth celebration and is hoping each year it grows with more people and vendors.
“Once people start coming to these events then they realize they have a role too, to play in these ongoing efforts towards freedom, that freedom is a continual process,” said Caree Banton-Associate Professor & Director of African American studies at the University of Arkansas.
The art displayed at the event highlighted the history of Juneteenth and the struggles African Americans faced throughout history.
“It is necessary to use events like this to kind of shine a light on the importance of not just African American history but American history,” Banton said.
Kristy Love is using this event to learn more about black history and connect with people of color in Northwest Arkansas, after moving from Louisiana.
“I think it’s amazing you know, I think we’re in a climate right now where the education is definitely needed,” Love said.
On the other hand, for Markeith Woods this is his way to showcase his resilience and passion through his artwork.
"I just feel fortunate enough to be able to keep doing what I love to do,” Woods said.
In this community Juneteenth means to them "a celebration of how far we’ve come but also how far we still have to go,” Woods said.
"Despite all the setbacks and bondage, God has still been good," Love said.
The official Juneteenth Holiday is next Sunday, June 19.
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