Jubilee in the Holy City: How Charleston, SC Celebrates Juneteenth

This article first appeared in Volume 10 - Issue 1 of Industry Certified Magazine. Visit their website for more info.

“…The day is known as Juneteenth, Freedom Day, and Jubilee Day, in honor of the anniversary of June 19th, 1865, when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to enforce and deliver the news that all enslaved people were free. The people broke out into joy, and the day has since been celebrated with families for generations. Although it has been a tradition in households across the country, many Americans, particularly those outside the African American community, only first heard about the holiday last year…

I celebrated my first Juneteenth this year with the community of Charleston, South Carolina. It’s estimated that 40 percent of enslaved people arrived in America through the ports of Charleston, and by the early 1700s, South Carolina was populated by a black majority. Their presence helped shape the area, creating the diverse cuisine, music, and art enjoyed by both locals and tourists today…

The day was a full schedule, bursting with talented performers. When I arrived, however, it was pouring down rain. As it turned out, I got there at the perfect time. I was drawn to the pavilion in the center of the park by an upbeat rhythm. The Wona Womalan and Deninufay African Drum & Dance ensembles were putting on an incredible show under the only shelter space in the park. A crowd of people crammed in together, shoulder to shoulder, trying to stay dry from the rain. Meanwhile, the dance and drum troop captivated their audience with the performance. The crowd cheered and clapped along as the group moved with powerful grace, dressed in their bright dashiki and colorful African clothing.

As the dance and drum company ended their performance, the rain cleared, allowing them to safely pack up their drums and equipment. The event stayed dry for the rest of the evening, allowing the festivities to continue as normal. Spirits were high, and everyone gathered to enjoy music, art, and dance. Families lay down their picnic blankets, setting up chairs and canopies. Children danced barefoot in the grass, while adults sang along to classic covers of Marvin Gaye, the Temptations, and the Jackson 5. Of course, no event would be complete without a fireworks finale. The festival concluded with a dazzling display of light illuminating the river below.

For me, Juneteenth is an important part of our history as Americans. It is a celebration for every citizen. June 19th symbolizes freedom and equality for all people, a basic right that must be guaranteed for all of humanity. This is a right that we must actively preserve and improve upon for future generations. It serves to recognize the progress we've made as a people, how far we've come, but also, how far we have yet to go. It is a reminder that we must keep fighting the good fight, continuing to demand a level of human decency, respect, and freedom for all.”

Read the full article by ordering a copy of the issue from Industry Certified Magazine.

Visit their website to learn more about the magazine and publication.