ALLENTOWN, Pa. — Baseball fans got to enjoy the game with a side of history as the IronPigs celebrate Juneteenth.
“Here we are today celebrating a part of American history,” said Sonya Eddings.
Friday night is the IronPigs third year partnering with Juneteenth Lehigh Valley to celebrate the end of slavery in the United States.
“It’s our history. It’s who we are as a country. And to have it recognized on the local scale with the Pigs is awesome,” said Kenya Karnga.
Before the National Anthem was sung, the Black National Anthem – “Lift Every Voice” – took center stage.
“Its just the most beautiful thing,” said Tracie Springer.
And the stadium showcased banners honoring the National Negro Baseball League, recognizing its contributions to America’s favorite past time.
“It’s an American history, you know, themed thing that everyone should know about,” said Springer.
Fans told us Friday night’s celebration is the reason they came.
“We’ve been wanting to come to a Juneteenth game specific, specifically,” Kargna said.
And others say, the night means more than just baseball…
“It means liberation. It means recognition. It means love. It means unity,” said Amber Burgess.
Friday’s event is a part of a whole weekend of festivities here in the Lehigh Valley, including a parade and festival Saturday in Easton.