By Markeesha Watson, Lincoln Recreation Center Supervisor
The Lincoln Recreation Center celebrates Juneteenth, the uniquely Texas holiday commemorating the end of slavery in Texas, with two events on Wednesday, June 18. The community-wide “Sounds of Freedom” celebration continues on Friday with events at the Bush Presidential Library and Museum and the Boys & Girls Club of the Brazos Valley.
The festivities begin with the Freedom March and Breakfast from 9-11 a.m. It features a powerful march through the community around the LRC, followed by a delicious breakfast, a musical performance, and a reading of “The Emancipation” by the Houston Chapter of the Buffalo Soldiers.
That evening, the vibrant and joyous Party at the Pavilion is from 6-8:30 p.m. at the LRC Pavilion, celebrating freedom through music, activities, culture, and community spirit.
More Community Events
On Friday, June 20, the celebration will continue from 9:30 a.m.-noon at the Bush Presidential Library and Museum. The day starts with a music forum featuring hip-hop legend Michael “5000” Watts and singer/rapper Kyle. Kyle will also entertain guests with a live performance. A community barbeque will follow just outside the library.
After lunch, the festivities move to an indoor fair from 1-5 p.m. at the Boys & Girls Club of the Brazos Valley in Bryan. Visitors can enjoy games for the kids, carnival-style food, and a meet-and-greet with Kyle.
About Juneteenth
On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers led by Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger landed in Galveston with news the war had ended and the enslaved were free. It was two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation went into effect.
A century and a half later, we continue to celebrate Juneteenth, now a federal holiday. It’s a time for reflection, rejoicing, and learning about local Black history and culture.
About the Blogger
Lincoln Recreation Center Supervisor Markeesha Watson has served the City of College Station for over a decade. She earned a bachelor’s degree in public relations and marketing from Ashford University.
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