Words by Jenny Lynn Davis | Image by Al Blanton
A Juneteenth celebration is set for Wednesday, June 19, 2025, from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. at St. James CME Church, located at 49 Stevens Street in Cordova.
The event will feature music, games, food trucks, and local vendors, with free vendor space available.
Organizer Ralph Williams says the event is open to everyone and encourages a strong community turnout.
“This is not just a Black event,” Williams says. “Juneteenth is an American holiday, and we want people from all backgrounds to come out and experience it.”
The event is focused on sharing African American culture and history in an inclusive and welcoming environment. Williams emphasizes that the goal is not to fundraise for the church, but to give back to the community and create space for education and connection.
The event will have a strong safety presence, and organizers are making an intentional push for diversity.
“Diversity isn’t a bad word. We have sixty years of data in Walker County that show how beneficial diversity has been. I want people to be curious enough to show up, take a look, and experience this part of African American culture,” Williams says. “At this event, we’re going to have a good time, but that’s just a side effect of what we’re really trying to do. Our goal is to teach history in a way that doesn’t get people defensive. We can’t go back and undo history, but we can learn from it and show why being informed matters today.”
Juneteenth, observed each year on June 19, marks the date in 1865 when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, were finally informed of their freedom, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. It is widely considered the official end of slavery in the United States. Juneteenth is a time to reflect on the struggles and contributions of African Americans throughout history, while also celebrating freedom, resilience, and progress. In 2021, it was recognized as a federal holiday.
Contact Ralph Williams at (205) 275-4092 for vendor information.
Cover Image: Ralph Williams speaks to the Walker County Commission, May 2025
