- April 26, 2024
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Palm Coast residents Joyce Shirley and Sheila Grant look at merchandise from BB's Boutique during the Juneteenth celebration. Photo by Paige Wilson
Palm Coast resident Gloria L. Benjamin celebrates Juneteenth. Photo by Paige Wilson
AACS cultural committee chairwoman Brenda Andrews, the program leader, pours water into a plant during the libation, which is where those present honored their ancestors by calling out their names. Photo by Paige Wilson
C-Squad Steppers of Daytona Beach perform. Photo by Paige Wilson
Imani Kinshasa reads poems, including one called "Beautiful Inspiration" written by her granddaughter. Photo by Paige Wilson
The African American Cultural Center was packed to the brim with people of all ages — from kids to elders in their nineties — as locals celebrated Juneteenth, the official holiday of the end of slavery. Known as Freedom Day, June 19, 1865, was the day the the abolition of slavery was announced in Texas.
“We have a mission to share our rich cultural heritage,” said Edmund Pinto, chairman of the African American Cultural Society Board of Directors.
For over 25 years, the AACS has shared that heritage with the next generation in Palm Coast, two of whom were awarded scholarships from the AACS Youth RealityProgram at the Juneteenth event on Saturday, June 15.
AACS President Joseph Matthews welcomed guests to mingle and peruse the resource booths and merchant tables that lined the room. The Negro National Anthem was sung loud and proud by those in attendance. Imani Kinshasa led the libation and read inspirational poems to the audience. Palm Coast City Councilman Eddie Branquino read a proclamation from the mayor’s office. Giovanni Sylvain and Demetrius Headly performed a skit about Juneteenth, as well.
The celebration at 4422 U.S. 1 was sponsored in part by the city of Palm Coast. AACS is celebrating 28 years in Palm Coast this year. Call the AACS at 447-7030 or email [email protected].
