Food, floats and fun without forgetting a painful past: ICT Juneteenth celebrations continue

WICHITA, Kan. (KAKE) – Making their way down 13th street people walked, were on floats and some even in old school cars.  

It was the annual Juneteenth celebration celebrating June 19, 1865, the day slavery for African Americans ended.  

“Man this is beautiful to me and for people to see us promoting positive images of our causes is a beautiful thing and something important to see,”  said a passionate Alton Guidry.   

Miss Juneteenth ICT was out celebrating with her friends.  She uses her freedom to make a positive difference in others.  

“It’s allowing me to advocate for my social impact initiative which is my empowerment project so I teach young people how to safely use social media and how to respond to cyberbullying,” said Tiana Hardwell.  

The event was held at Mc Adams Park where hundreds filled it quickly.    

The kids enjoyed games and there were different vendors of all types.  

Even with all of the fun happening, Juneteenth is still a reminder of a painful past which is why 15-year-old Janae Kelly feels the celebration is important.  

“It’s obviously the point where like it was written in writing that slaves could be free and I know that not everybody necessarily feels that way but I think it’s important that we celebrate that time,”  added Kelly.   

Kelly was out celebrating with her brother Trey who shared how many African Americans celebrate.  

He said, “Getting together with your friends and family in the Black community, eating food, smoking ribs, all those types of things and just being together because together we’re stronger.” 

Empowering signs could be seen all around the park.  

It was a day of positivity. 

One 94-year-old Vietnam and Korean war veteran, Julius Williams is glad to see. 

Williams shares his experience from the war which is something many African Americans still face today.  

“We did not get promoted when we had the time and grade and all of the qualifications, they would reach over and get somebody else and promote them,” said Williams.   

He added he is glad to see less hatred and said, “There are still some people who are hardcore, don’t even want to speak to you but there are less of them.”