Community celebrates unity at annual Juneteenth parade in St. Joseph

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- The annual Juneteenth parade brought the St. Joseph community together in celebration and unity.

The parade, which began at 10 a.m. and concluded at noon, started at Bode Middle School and ended at the Bartlett Center.

Organizations and groups from across the state, including local law enforcement agencies, participated in the march to show their support for unity and inclusion.

"We had lots of amazing stepper groups, and of course, MidCity Excellence came out with their drumline and really showed out," said Sara Wilson, Executive Director of the St. Joseph Museums. "We also had the Leavenworth Buffalo Soldiers on their motorcycles; they came out this year. So, it was a really great parade."

One local group, the Rolling 3 Riders, said it means a lot to see so many diverse groups show up in support of a common purpose.

"It's a really good feeling," said Snakeman, president of the Rolling 3 Riders. "It's been a lovely time supporting this town, and to see so many others backing that makes the feeling even greater."

Event organizers hope today's festivities showcased pride, culture, and a unified message.

"It's the celebration of freedom, of course, but it's also the coming together of our community to celebrate how important our freedom is," said Wilson. “Everybody's freedom, because nobody is free until we are all free. And that's our message."

The Juneteenth parade was followed by additional events, including a gala, fashion show, and foam party, all supported by various vendors and food options.

In addition, Big Luke and the Soul Disciples will perform live from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Bartlett Center.

The Juneteenth celebration will conclude on Sunday with a community picnic at Bartlett Park from 1 to 4 p.m. The picnic is free and open to all.