TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – The Manhattan community came together Saturday to celebrate freedom and togetherness during the Juneteenth weekend.
The gathering featured music, free food and dancing lessons for all ages.
“This particular day, you can just relax, come out in fellowship with your neighbors, and just have a great time,” said Betti O’, an event organizer.
The main event of the day was the Unity Walk, something Betti hopes brings neighbors together as they stand shoulder to shoulder.
“With this walk, we’re in close proximity to each other, so we’re challenging all the neighbors and families and friends to meet just one new person and just say hello,” Betti said.
The celebration also featured an interactive art piece where attendees could write down what they feel is their superpower.
Taking place on Yuma Street, a historically Black district in Manhattan, it means a bit more when speaking of the past triumphs and hardships.
“During segregation, Yuma was the black community here in Manhattan and there are deep roots, deep history,” said Sheila Ellis-Glasper, executive director of Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills.
A history both on Yuma Street and nationally should be remembered.
“We’re just standing on the shoulders of our ancestors, and so Juneteenth is a time to really honor them, but also look toward the future,” Ellis-Glasper said.
“It didn’t come easily to everyone, and it certainly didn’t come easy to us, but now that we have it, we’re going to continue to celebrate,” Betti said.
Yuma Street has more events coming up, such as the Yuma Street Cultural Festival on Sunday, Sept. 6.
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