The Kosciusko Division of the National Council of Negro Women sponsored a Juneteenth celebration at the Oprah Winfrey Boys and Club on Saturday, June 29.
Charlotte Miller gave the greetings and introduction. Alyssa Olive, a 2015 graduate of KHS and 2019 graduate of Millsaps College, served as the master of ceremonies. Ward 1 Alderman Taylor Casey welcomed the group on behalf of the City of Kosciusko. Pastor Katherine Weatherby gave the invocation.
The youth section of the NCNW entertained with a dramatic reading of the poem, “My Black is Beautiful,” and Dr. Sam Johnson gave a brief history of Juneteenth, the celebration of the Emancipation Proclamation, which was signed on June 19, 1865.
Autumn Lewis introduced the keynote speaker Mary Ann Vivians, the mayor of the city of Carthage. Mayor Vivians spoke on the topic, “Are We Free or Not Free?”
Vivians said people are often not free because of their choices and encouraged starting change where it is needed: in the home, school and community. She challenged the audience to use their God-given talents and reminded them, “You can go anywhere if you put your mind to it.”
“If you don’t know which way to go, go right,” she said.
A musical performance by the Mt. Pilgrim M.B. youth choir followed Vivians’ address.
Diamond Rayford gave the announcements, and Minnie Greer made the closing remarks. The blessing of the food was given by Miss Arissa Olive.
The day ended with refreshments and activities.
