The Greenbrier County Juneteenth Steering Committee, in partnership with the Greenbrier Historical Society, is proud to announce the first annual Juneteenth Celebration in Greenbrier County on June 19th and June 21st.
“On June 19, 1865, federal troops led by General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, taking control of the state and ensuring that all enslaved people were freed. That day became an annual celebration and the name Juneteenth was created (shortened for June 19th). It is a day to be celebrated by all who recognize the importance of freedom. In conjunction with the Greenbrier Historical Society, we have planned an evening to highlight the historical significance of the day.”
Janice Cooley, GHS Board of Directors
This event is free and open to the public. We hope to see you there!
Yvonne Jones, Juneteenth Steering Committee
Thursday, June 19th Schedule
6PM to 6:45PM at Carnegie Hall, Old Stone Room – Keynote Speaker: Maurice Cooley, Retired Assoc. Vice President, Marshall University Office of Intercultural Affairs
7PM to 8PM at the North House Museum – “Echoes of Slavery” Exhibit Review by Janice Cooley, GHS Board Member
Refreshments will be served.
“Juneteenth recognizes both the pain of the past and the hope for a more just future. As we honor this day, we also lift up the stories of the Black community in Greenbrier County whose lives, labor, and legacies helped shape the region even in the face of injustice and exclusion.”
