FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Southern Indiana Community Unites for Juneteenth Block Party in Jeffersonville

06/04/2024, Jeffersonville, IN – This June, the Jeffersonville community will come together to celebrate Juneteenth with a vibrant Block Party, organized by local resident and business owner, Miguel Hampton of F5 Enterprises LLC. Partnering with community members and agencies, Hampton aims to foster unity, education, and celebration.

Juneteenth commemorates the day in 1865 when many of the last enslaved African Americans learned of their freedom following the Emancipation Proclamation. Hampton, the lead organizer, envisions the event as a platform for community bonding and education on the significance of Juneteenth, the essence of freedom, and the historical contributions of local Black residents.

“This is our first step,” said Hampton. “Juneteenth and African American history should be celebrated and taught daily, just as we do with all history.”

Last year’s event, co-organized by Hampton and Missy Smith, was a resounding success. “The energy and joy were palpable last year, and we expect no less this year,” said Smith. “It’s wonderful to come together as a community at a free event that entire families enjoy.”

2024 Event Details:
Date: Friday, June 14, 2024Time: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Location: NOCO | Arts and Culture District of Jeffersonville, Michigan Avenue between 6th and 7th Street

Event Highlights:

Opening Ceremony: From 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, featuring Mss. Black Kentucky pageant crown holders, a special presentation of “Lift Every Voice and Sing” by Miss Black KY USA, Sophia Crowder, an aspiring opera singer who performs in six languages, and a reading of the Emancipation Proclamation by Teah Williams-Hampton, Nikki Williams, and Janne Newland.

Family-Friendly Activities: Safety giveaways, free health screenings, a fire truck appearance from the Jeffersonville Fire Department, readings from the Jeffersonville Library, bounce houses, food trucks, vendors, games, and music.

Black Art Exhibit: Unveiling by Miguel Hampton, featuring regional visual artists including Kayla Morgan, photographer Ayrica Bishop, visual artist Lj Bryant, digital creator Ci’Vaughn Green, and more. The exhibit will be open on Friday from 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM, with a private showing on Saturday, June 15th at the Noco Art Center.

Local Entertainment: An evening of entertainment from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM featuring a variety of vocal artists including DJ Mini, DJ Kedran Pulliam, vocalist Darnell Graig, hip hop artist Ygb Jay, VNCNT, Yung Judah, and more.

“Celebrating Juneteenth in Jeffersonville encourages all families to learn and discuss our shared history. It’s an opportunity to experience this culture together,” Hampton emphasized. He also noted the importance of understanding what freedom has meant for Black people in the U.S.“Juneteenth embodies the understanding of African American history, American history, and our perseverance. Despite adversity, we continue to hope for equality and equity in this country,” Hampton said.

The Jeffersonville Public Library is a proud sponsor of the event.  Library director David Seckman stated, “We are delighted to sponsor this wonderful festival. It aligns with our values of being a welcoming, safe, and inclusive place for everyone. Supporting education and storytelling is crucial for equity, freedom, and justice for all.”

For Sponsorship and Vendor Opportunities:
Visit: Juneteenth Sponsorship and Vendor Information
Email: mhampton@f5enterprises.com 
Voicemail: 812-913-4142

Join us in celebrating Juneteenth and fostering a stronger, more inclusive community in Jeffersonville.

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