NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Monday is Juneteenth and to celebrate freedom, there's a lot of fun happening around Music City. It's the youngest federal holiday, but its history goes all the way back to 1865.
People all across the country are joining together to commemorate Juneteenth, a significant day in American history that marks the emancipation of the last enslaved people.
More than 2,800 people are estimated to be participating in the Juneteenth615 event which starts at 5:00 p.m. and wraps up around 10:00 p.m.
Frank Sykes, part of the production crew, expressed his deep involvement in the event, stating that it goes beyond his professional responsibilities.
"It is definitely in representing what the event is and always a pleasure to be a part of that," said Sykes.
Juneteenth has gained national recognition as a holiday and has also become a state holiday in many regions. It serves as a reminder of the day when the last remaining enslaved individuals were granted their freedom, two years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation.
Jeneene Blackman, CEO of the African American Cultural Alliance, expressed excitement about the official Juneteenth Celebration taking place at Fort Negley.
Fort Negley holds great historical significance, which is why organizers specifically chose it as the venue for the Juneteenth festivities.
"I'm so excited because it's a significant part of our history, not just African American history, but American history. Everyone should understand how important this place is to Nashville. Everything that exists in Nashville started here. The people who built the city started here," said Blackman.
During the Civil War, around three thousand Black laborers, both free and enslaved, constructed Fort Negley and even fought against the Confederate army when required.
The freed slaves went on to establish thriving neighborhoods such as Edgehill, Edgefield, and Jefferson Street.
Blackman stressed the importance of recognizing the sacrifices made by those who came before and acknowledging the contributions of those who built the city.
The Juneteenth celebrations will end with a fireworks display and a performance of "Lift Ev'ry Voice" by the Nashville African American Wind Symphony.
While rain is in the forecast, the event is rain or shine and attendees are allowed to bring umbrellas. There's limited parking, so carpooling or calling a ride-share is recommended.
There should be golf carts on site to assist visitors with site tours.
