Organizers preparing for first Juneteenth celebration

ALBANY, Ga. – This South Albany park is going to be the site of the first Juneteenth Festival this weekend. And we got a chance to speak with the organizer about the impact he’s hoping it has.

We met with Omar Salaam, whose organizing the event for Saturday, the 15th, and Sunday the 16th.

And… he’s planning to make it a big one to attract as many people.

“One of the things we’re gonna have going on is education. We’re going to thoroughly educate about Juneteenth, the meaning the purpose, and where we are now with Juneteenth. And, we’re going to celebrate,” said Omar Salaam, event organizer, Juneteenth Celebration.

The education aspect is important to Salaam as Juneteenth is still a relatively new federal holiday, only becoming official in 2021.

“We need to educate the young, and those of us of age also about Juneteenth. Because there’s been a lot of misconception, and misunderstanding about Juneteenth, so we’re gonna have someone here that’s going to explain all of it to you and set it straight,” said Salaam.

But, more than anything, this weekend celebration is open to everyone.

“We just invite everyone to come out. This is our first year starting this year, and we’re expecting this to grow. We want this to grow with the community. This is a free event, costs nothing to come out,” said Salaam.

The event is scheduled to run from 11 am to 9 pm on Saturday and from 12 Noon to 6 pm on Sunday at 2452 West Gordon Avenue.

Salaam is still in search of vendors for the event. If you’re interested, you can contact him at 229-291-7728.

Brian Roche reporting.

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