Gainesville marks 6th year partnering with Cotton Club Museum for Emancipation Proclamation celebration

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) -The City of Gainesville marked its sixth year partnering with the Cotton Club Museum and Cultural Center to celebrate the Emancipation Proclamation, bringing residents together for a day of walking, reflection and education.

The day began at Depot Park with a community walk aimed at enriching and uniting participants. Organizers also held a public reading of the Emancipation Proclamation.

Attendees said they were grateful to live in a city that recognizes history and supports a range of cultures.

“Great to have … the city to partner up with these different types of activities that help support different cultures all throughout the city — not just a Black culture but Latino culture … the LGBT culture,” said Dewayne Baines, a walk participant. “I think it’s very important that we celebrate each other, love on each other.”

This year’s theme was, “Preserving the teachings of the past to empower the present and future.” The celebration continued with educational sessions and a panel discussion featuring community leaders, including Gainesville Mayor Harvey Ward.

“The importance of community, the importance of just being present with one another … seeing people as people, getting to know people … just being human … just love,” said Jakacia Phipps, director of participant engagement with Released Reentry.

Organizers said the programming helped close out Gainesville’s Juneteenth celebrations by focusing on community connection and education.

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