News Summary
Richmond Hill hosted a reflective Juneteenth event on June 14, organized by Unity in the Community. Titled ‘A Walk Through Richmond Hill History,’ the gathering focused on the historical significance of enslaved individuals in the area, featuring a guest speaker who shared experiences of school integration. Attendees engaged in thoughtful discussions about the city’s past. Further educational activities and a festival are planned to honor this pivotal moment in American history.
Richmond Hill celebrated Juneteenth with a reflective event on June 14 at the Richmond Hill City Center, organized by Unity in the Community. The celebration, titled “A Walk Through Richmond Hill History,” was led by Craig and Sharon Butts and aimed to honor the legacy of those who came before by inviting attendees to reflect on the city’s past.
The gathering took place in the Sterling Creek Room, focusing on the historical significance of enslaved individuals who once worked in the area’s indigo and rice fields, now part of J.F. Gregory Park. Through storytelling, participants gained a deeper understanding of the land’s history and its impact on the community.
Guest speaker Mae (DaVillars) Boles shared her personal experiences of growing up in Richmond Hill. Notably, she was one of the first seven Black students from George Washington Carver School to integrate the local high school. Boles described the experience of integration as a “test” chosen by the Black community, highlighting the challenges faced during that period.
Although attendance was modest, the event fostered thoughtful discussions about Richmond Hill’s history and its connection to the broader African American experience. Unity in the Community expressed gratitude to participants and sponsors, which included Food Lion, Green Spork, La Casita Peruvian Restaurant, and photographer Chris Cotton.
In addition to the Juneteenth celebration, a further educational program on Juneteenth is scheduled for June 19 at 6 p.m. in the Guyton Leisure Services Room. Following that, a Juneteenth festival will take place on June 21 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Church of the Harvest in Rincon.
Lucy Powell, chairperson of the Juneteenth committee, emphasized the significance of remembering history and celebrating achievements within the community. The Bryan County NAACP is also hosting a Freedom Day Prayer Breakfast on June 21 at the Wetlands Center in Richmond Hill from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. This breakfast is part of the second annual Juneteenth Freedom Day celebration.
Richmond Hill’s Mayor, Russ Carpenter, attended the breakfast and showed support for the NAACP’s efforts to raise awareness about Juneteenth. Luella Sanders, president of the Bryan County Chapter of the NAACP, welcomed attendees and highlighted the role of the breakfast in uniting the community.
Dr. Johnnie Quiller from Lotus of Love delivered a message emphasizing the need for cancer support organizations, citing statistics on cancer diagnoses while sharing hope for survivors. Musical performances included songs by Pastor Hubert Quiller, and guests showcased poetry readings during the breakfast event.
A libation ceremony led by Julie Pecenka honored the memories of former slaves, while prayers were lifted for youth, first responders, and the U.S. Armed Forces. Pastor Elisha Boyd announced upcoming activities for the MLK Committee, including a gala and concert planned for the MLK Observance Season in October.
These events collectively reflect Richmond Hill’s commitment to honoring its history and fostering community engagement, as residents come together to celebrate Juneteenth and recognize the significance of this pivotal moment in American history.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Bryan County News: Unity in the Community Hosts Juneteenth Event
- Savannah Now: Juneteenth Celebrations Across the Country
- WTVR: Church Hill Juneteenth Celebration
- Bryan County News: NAACP Hosts Juneteenth Prayer Breakfast
- Coastal Courier: Richmond Hill Native Involved in Mid-Air Collision
- Wikipedia: Juneteenth
- Google Search: Juneteenth Celebration
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Juneteenth
- Google News: Juneteenth
