FEATURED EVENT: JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION - OXNARD, CA

[D. MARQUIS]

Photos by D.Marquis  and Louvonia Thompson


We had the opportunity to check out the JUNETEENTH Celebration in OXNARD, CA on June 17, 2023 and it was quite amazing. The City of Oxnard did a fantastic job in organizing and coming out in full support to provide this outdoor event held at Downtown Plaza Park.



In recent years, Juneteenth has gained significant recognition and importance as a celebration of freedom and the end of slavery in the United States. In the vibrant city of Oxnard, California, the Juneteenth Festival of 2023 took place, captivating the community with a joyous atmosphere filled with historical remembrance, cultural heritage, and unity. Let's dive into the highlights of this remarkable event and explore the significance of Juneteenth in Oxnard.


On June 19, 1865, General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, with news of the Emancipation Proclamation, officially declaring the freedom of enslaved African Americans. This momentous occasion marked the true end of slavery in the United States. Today, Juneteenth commemorates that milestone and serves as a reminder of the struggles endured by African Americans and the ongoing fight for equality.
Article courtesy of Military.com


The Juneteenth Festival in Oxnard sought to honor this history by creating an engaging and educational experience for attendees. Historical exhibitions, interactive displays, and storytelling sessions shed light on the significance of Juneteenth and the enduring legacy of those who fought for freedom. Visitors had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of African American history and gain a greater appreciation for the sacrifices made by previous generations.

The City's Dignitaries came out to kick off the event with great enthusiasm.


The festival embraced the richness of African American culture, with vibrant performances, traditional music, and tantalizing cuisine. Attendees were treated to captivating live music from local artists, showcasing the diverse genres that have emerged from the African American experience, such as jazz, blues, gospel, and hip-hop. The rhythmic beats filled the air, creating an electric atmosphere of celebration and togetherness. 

We visited one of the Artist's Booth owned by ART BY BETTY which quickly caught our eyes with the number of original paintings, prints, cards, and other beautiful designs. It was a pleasure to speak with BETTY (the artist and proprietor) and we will be featuring her in an upcoming article real soon.

Food vendors offered a tantalizing array of culinary delights, including soul food classics as well as other African and Caribbean-inspired dishes. The tantalizing aromas and mouthwatering flavors created a sense of community as people gathered to savor the diverse cuisines and engage in conversations about cultural heritage and the significance of Juneteenth.




Beyond the historical and cultural dimensions, the Juneteenth Festival fostered unity and empowerment within the community. It served as a platform for artists, entrepreneurs, and local organizations to showcase their talents and contributions. The event featured numerous small businesses, artisans, and community organizations, providing them with an opportunity to engage with the public, promote their work, and strengthen community ties.

We enjoyed speaking with LEROY A. GIBSON JR.  at his booth and checking out his Black History Dioramas which he crafts himself- highlighting many historic periods of Black History. His personal journey is also very interesting and unique as he shared decades of knowledge which is available in his book below. (Click to purchase)

Historical Tribute to  the origin and history of Black Cowboys

Another booth that caught our interest was the H.E.R.O.E.S. (Honoring Excellence Regardless of Ethnic Stigmas) Mobile Exhibit. Paying amazing tribute to some Black Pioneers and heroes that truly need and deserve recognition such as "The Buffalo Soldiers and Tuskegee Airmen. Lawrence " The General" Lee is the Curator / Customizer of this Exhibition and his work is absolutely phenomenal. We got a chance to spend a bit of time with him and he is a true historian who supplied what seemed like a lifetime of lost knowledge in just a few minutes.

Lawrence "The General" Lee- Curator / Figure Customizer

Various workshops and panel discussions were held to address social issues, promote dialogue, and empower attendees with knowledge and resources. Topics ranged from racial equity and justice to economic empowerment and community development. Through these conversations, participants were encouraged to actively contribute to positive change in their communities and beyond.



The Juneteenth Festival of 2023 in Oxnard, CA, encapsulated the essence of freedom, heritage, and unity. By commemorating the historic emancipation of enslaved African Americans, the event fostered a deeper appreciation for the struggles and achievements of the past. It also provided a platform for celebrating African American culture, fostering unity within the community, and empowering individuals to create a more equitable society.

As Juneteenth continues to gain prominence across the United States, events like the Juneteenth Festival in Oxnard serve as important reminders of our shared history and the ongoing pursuit of equality. Through education, cultural celebrations, and community engagement, we can work together to honor the past, celebrate the present, and shape a brighter future for all.

Be sure to check out these items that will further your knowledge of BLACK HISTORY here in the United States.
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