CLERMONT – While Juneteenth is a newly-declared holiday, the history behind the remembrance is anything but new. Clermont will join the celebration of freedom with cultural activities on Saturday, June 18 at Waterfront Park, 300 3rd Street.
Juneteenth was declared a national holiday in 2021 by President Biden. It stems from the delayed freedom – by more than two years – for more than 200,000 slaves in Galveston, Texas after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed in 1863 by President Lincoln.
Admission is free and festivities will begin at 4 p.m. with cultural music, art and dance. Local pastors will offer a special invocation and Clermont Mayor Tim Murry will deliver the Juneteenth Address.
“The more we learn about the history of Juneteenth and the facts surrounding that date, the more I believe we learn it is not a Black holiday, but rather an American celebration of freedom,” Clermont Mayor Tim Murry said.
Vendors featuring art, culinary delights and various services will be on hand, as well as a representative from the Lake County Supervisor of Elections office.
“An event that celebrates the freedom we all enjoy seems like the perfect place to encourage residents to vote,” Lake County Supervisor of Elections Alan Hays said. “We will be there and ready to register members of our community.”
Lake County residents can register to vote with a current Florida driver’s license, state identification card or by using the last four digits of their social security number.
The Equity Council provided collaboration on the event. New Jacob’s Chapel, Hyundai of Central Florida, Cano Health and Care Plus Health Plan assisted in sponsoring this new event.
