Selma begins Juneteenth celebration Saturday

The City of Selma will get an early jump to celebrate Juneteenth on Saturday.

While the official statewide Juneteenth holiday is June 19 designated by Gov. Kay Ivey, events kick off with a Free Youth Program Saturday from 2-6 p.m. at the Civil Rights Park at the Selmont side of Edmund Pettus Bridge.

D.A.T., Alabama New South Coalition, North Star, The Bridge Crossing Jubilee, and the Connie Tucker Legacy Foundation present Juneteenth, which marked the end of slavery. The theme for the event is  “Get Out The Vote BBQ.”

“These organizations aim to promote civic engagement, cultural awareness, and community empowerment,’ Juneteenth Celebration Committee person Olimatta Taal said.

A Drive-In Silent Disco will be held between 6 p.m. and 3 a.m. at the National Voting Rights Museum Parking lot at 6 US Hwy 80 East. Live performances featuring Southern Soul music, and video tributes cost $15.

The third annual Juneteenth celebration will be held on June 19 at Foot Soldiers Park from 2-6 p.m.

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