By Beacon Staff
This year’s annual Juneteenth celebration attracted a large crowd on Sunday (June 21) at DeEdwin and Gladys White Memorial Park in Burlington.
Juneteenth is the oldest celebration of the end of slavery in America. The historical significance of the day has not been lost on Burlington residents who attend the local Juneteenth celebration each year.
However, Sunday's event almost didn't happen after the Burlington branch of the NAACP was forced to cancel their participation due to concerns about the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
Enter Burlington native Matt Cratton who stepped up to help organize Sunday's event, featuring fun, food, and fellowship.
Photo by William Smith
Free face painting was provided by Juneteenth volunteers, and Marshawn, 7, of Burlington shows off the colorful design he received on Sunday.