The city of Greenville came alive with pride and celebration on Wednesday as community members gathered at Unity Park to commemorate Juneteenth. The event marked the third annual Juneteenth celebration at the park.
As attendees made their way from Falls Park on the Reedy to Unity Park in a lively walking parade, the spirit of unity and remembrance filled the air. Loretta Holloway, South Carolina’s official First Lady of Song, shared her pride in the historical significance of the event, pointing to a mural dedicated to her ancestors, Elias Brown and Hattie Jordan Holloway.
Reflecting on the importance of honoring her family’s legacy, Holloway added, “We have a very long history of Holloways, so it’s good to see us here in Unity Park and what it means to bring everybody together.”
Following the walking parade, community members gathered at the Prisma Health Welcome Center for a program filled with artistic performances and cultural expressions. Holloway took the stage once again, delivering a musical performance that resonated with the audience and highlighted the rich musical heritage of the African American community.
Throughout the day, the message of unity and diversity echoed in the performances, speeches, and conversations among attendees. The Juneteenth celebration at Unity Park served as a reminder of the progress made in the fight for civil rights and the ongoing work towards a more equitable and inclusive society.
As the sun set on Unity Park and the Juneteenth celebration came to a close, the echoes of the day’s performances and speeches lingered in the air. For many attendees, the event served as a moment of reflection on the past, a celebration of the present, and a call to action for the future.
Juneteenth at Unity Park was not just a day of celebration; it was a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality, justice, and freedom. As the community dispersed, carrying with them the spirit of Juneteenth, the message of unity and solidarity continued to resonate in the hearts and minds of all who attended.
