Juneteenth, a creation from merging the words June and Nineteenth, marks the remembrance of June 19, 1865. This day, 159 years ago, saw the arrival of approximately 2,000 Union troops in Galveston Bay, Texas, heralding what is now celebrated as black independence day. Affirmed as a federal holiday on June 17, 2021, Juneteenth is observed widely across Texas through various festivities including festivals, parties, parades, and church services, signifying the emancipation of enslaved individuals in the United States and their liberation from chains.
Annually, the Juneteenth celebration in Brownwood, TX, takes place in and around Cecil Holman Park, with this year’s events scheduled for June 14 – 16, organized by Kyd’s INC. Despite this being the organization’s inaugural year in managing the event, they have successfully fundraised to support the plan for this three-day celebration. Moreover, they have initiated several community activities aimed at enjoyment and unity while generating funds for these celebrations. Kyd’s INC President Teri Sakena, motivated by her memories of Juneteenth festivities during her childhood, formed a committee and embarked on fundraising to revive and enrich the tradition.
The preparatory efforts led by Teri, Stephanie Miller Brew & Allis Hood and two out-of-town board members, Ashley Evans from the DFW area and Kimberly Jones from Houston, focused on fostering a sense of harmony, laughter, love, and unity within the community. Through determined efforts, they launched two successful golf tournaments, a Sip N Paint at 10 Mile Production and a red carpet gala at the Bennie Houston Community Center. These events have set a high standard, thanks to contributions from various supporters including Jody Tilmon for decoration and catering with many donations given creating a phenomenal potato bar by Velma Butler. Kyd’s INC created an event that had the town ready for the next.
The inaugural Living Legends Legacy Awards banquet highlighted the celebration, featuring speaker Val Rhodes and honoring esteemed members of the community. This marks the beginning of a tradition that looks to future celebrations. Thank you to Terah Burns and her crew for the professional catering she delivered as well as a big warm thank you to Herbert Colbert for his Dj services. Thank you to the amazing emcees William and Kimberly Britton and photos by none other than Dedrick Hall at Be Okay Photography.
Kyd’s INC not only pays homage to Teri’s grandmother “Kyd” a name she wholly respects, but also underscores a motto of “Integrity is our essence”. Incorporating all kids alike and aspiring to teach unity, peace and black history not just on Juneteenth, but in life. We all have a culture and we have a right to know where we come from and how we got here. We are free, but how did we make it to this point? This is where the history of Juneteenth comes in for the black culture. The organization’s aim extends beyond Juneteenth, seeking to instill unity, peace, and awareness of black history. This year’s Juneteenth will include a wide range of activities such as a bass competition, karaoke and paint, a car and bike parade, live music, activities for children, and more, culminating in a family-oriented day in the park. This invitation extends to the entire community of Brownwood, encouraging a widespread celebration of freedom, peace, and love, which are central to the holiday. We hope to see a rewarding turnout and a celebration of freedom the entire weekend which will finish with a day in the park for Father’s Day.
Preceding the main Juneteenth events, there will be an early celebration at Cecil Holman Park on June 8, gearing up for a festival filled with community spirit and camaraderie.
