The Chickasha Juneteenth Association has dozens of activities and events planned for this year’s celebration on June 14-15, which observes the anniversary of the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation on June 19, 1863, by Abraham Lincoln.
The proclamation freed all persons held as slaves, although slaves held in Texas and surrounding states were not freed until 1865.
Organizers noted that producing such an event packed celebration requires help from volunteers to donations. Juneteenth activties are funded entirely by donations from the businesses and residents of Chickasha. The name of donating sponsors will appear on the Juneteenth T-shirt unless sponsors prefer to remain anonymous. If they wish, they can mail donation(s) or one of the Juneteenth committee members can come by to pick up the donation.
Donations can consist of sponsorships, monetary contribution, $25 – $100 gift cards, game prizes, food and more.
The celebration is scheduled to begin officially at 6 p.m. Friday, June 14, 2024, with activities and family games at Washita Valley Park.
At 10 a.m. Saturday, June 15th, the parade will start at Lincoln School located at 1st Street and Dakota Ave. It will travel to Washita Valley Park for the opening ceremony at 11 a.m. The celebration will last in the park until 6 p.m. The Association will have vendor space available for rental for the entire day in the park. Those who would like more information regarding booth rental, should please contact Ms. Angelia Blunt at 1-405-222-0472.
For questions or concerns, contact any committee member listed below.
Juneteenth Planning Committee:
Bro. Kirk Irby, Co-Chairman 405-436-4536
Bro. Desmond Taylor, Co-Chairman, 405-816-3835