Juneteenth picnic packs Bartlett Center full
By Kendra Simpson
The Bartlett Center went all out Sunday afternoon with their Juneteenth picnic complete with a petting zoo, bounce houses and gospel music.
After already hosting a fashion show, parade and a vendor fair, St. Joseph continues to commemorate its history and diversity that enriches the community.
LaTonya Williams, Executive Director of the Bartlett Center, believed this event to be one of the Center’s largest turnouts for the holiday with every table full.
“It is a packed house, I mean, it’s way more people than we’ve ever imagined,” Williams said. “It’s an amazing feeling. I mean, my face hurts because I can’t stop smiling.”
Juneteenth officially celebrated on June 19th, commemorates the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States. Williams said it’s important for the St. Joseph community to celebrate this occasion because it brings people of all different backgrounds together.
“I think it’s important, you know, for all people to be proud of themselves and where you came from,” Williams said. “Our people have come from a lot of adversity and we need to celebrate each other and out triumphs and the togetherness and the brotherhood, you know, with everyone.”
The smell of home cooked meals, the sound of worship and smiles galore filled the Bartlett Center as the community gather to celebrate freedom for all.
The celebrations continue until Thursday, June 20th with the sold out Juneteenth Gala and “Walk on Water” performance, which will play at the Missouri Theatre Wednesday and Thursday at 7 p.m.
