Juneteenth, a celebration of freedom in the United States, was commemorated across Washington, with Tacoma hosting the state’s largest event at Stewart Heights Park. Organized by WayOut Kids, the event drew an estimated 20,000 attendees. “The energy is wild! And I’m absolutely loving it,” said Jackie Crawford, a vendor and owner of Generations Hair Salon. Attendees like Leah Kirk emphasized the importance of recognizing Black excellence and resilience. Juneteenth marks the day in 1865 when the last enslaved Black Americans in Galveston, Texas, were informed of their freedom, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. In 2021, Washington state officially recognized Juneteenth as a legal holiday, followed by its designation as a federal holiday. The event featured dozens of vendors promoting Black-owned businesses and economic empowerment. “It’s important to support Black-owned businesses and help each other level up,” said attendee Mike Ford. Crawford added, “Believing in your talent and putting in the work ethic is economic freedom.”
— new from FOX 13 Seattle
