The Bayonne NAACP is outlining the activities they had planned as part of their three-day celebration of Juneteenth next week on Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“It’s important that we commemorate the Juneteenth holiday not only because of its importance to African Americans, but the nation as a whole,” Bayonne NAACP President Donald T. Byrd III said in a statement.
“This uniquely American holiday, a renunciation of this country’s centuries-long system of enslavement, elevates and strengthens America’s commitment to its founding fathers’ declaration that all are created equal. This holiday affords us all the opportunity to learn more about our nation’s history, and celebrate our nation’s evolution as a democracy.”
A flag raising ceremony will be held at Dr. David G. Morris Park, which is located at 967-71 Broadway, on Wednesday, June 19, beginning at 6 p.m.
Earnest Allen, a U.S. Air Force veteran, local community activist and NAACP Silver Level Life membership holder, will be honored during the ceremony.
There will be a showing of the movie, Glory, at the Bayonne Public Library, which is located at 697 Avenue C, on Thursday, June 20, beginning at 5:30 p.m.
The movie will be preceded by a talk on the formation of the historic 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment, depicted in the movie, with Mr. George Higgins, Sr. Higgins is a lawyer with Central Jersey Legal Services and a professor of history, government, public speaking, and law at Hudson County Community College, Union County College, and Monmouth University.
The Juneteenth Celebration will culminate with a Juneteenth Festival on Saturday, June 22nd, beginning at 12 p.m. in G. Thomas DiDomenico 16th Street Park, located at 375-409 Avenue A.
The event will feature musical entertainment from a variety of genres including jazz, rap and spoken word. DJ Will and DJ Foxy Jo will also be on hand. Featured artist, Lance Bryant and the Lance Bryant Jazz Quartet, will perform from 3 pm to 4 pm.
Children’s activities include “bubble” entertainment with OMG Bubbles and face painting. Several food vendors will be present including Lady G’s Empanadas and Heart and Soul in the Kitchen.
All events are free and open to the general public.
