×

Weirton community to observe Juneteenth

WEIRTON — The Weirton community is set to mark the official end of slavery in the United States, with a Juneteenth celebration.

The event, set from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at the Weirton Event Center, is being sponsored by St. Peters A.M.E. Church, with plans for live music, food and more.

“It will be a city event,” spokesperson Jonathan Curenton explained when he announced plans during the May meeting of Weirton Council. “It’s going to be a celebration.”

Among scheduled performances are Alex Kaine, Elise Rainbow, Linda Ross Brown, Re-konception!, James Montgomery, Melanye Wares, Elijah (Platinum) Fletcher, CBE 180s Babies, Teresa Kropka, Ambassadors Mime Team and Bobbyjon and Pamela Bauman.

The Juneteenth event is open to the public and there is no cost to attend.

Also known as Freedom Day, Jubilee Day, Liberation Day and Emancipation Day, Juneteenth commemorates the declaration of freedom from slavery in Texas on June 19, 1865, more than two years after Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation.

Celebrations can be traced back to 1866, beginning with church-centered community gatherings in Texas, and then spreading to other states.

Today it is observed in all but three states.

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *

COMMENTS

[vivafbcomment]

Starting at $4.73/week.

Subscribe Today