By: Nicholaus Perry, Reporter
OMAHA, Neb.– On Saturday, June 18, the Omaha Juneteenth Parade will be held at 24th and Lake Street, at 10 a.m.
After the last two years of cancelling the Omaha Juneteenth parade, it will return, but in a new location before 30th Street.
North 24th street is rooted deep in history and serves as a home base for the African American Community.
Previously, North 24th Street was known as the Deuce, now it is known as the 24th Street Quarter.
The Operational Manager at non-profit Freedom Tame, Calvin Williams stresses the importance of the Juneteenth parade and festival.
“I think people should come here because they can learn about North Omaha culture, and they can also be introduced to multiple resources from organizations that are already in the North Omaha community,” he said.
President Joe Biden signed the bill in 2021 that recognizes Juneteenth as a federal holiday. This year’s Juneteenth parade will be the first year the parade is held as a federal holiday in Omaha. The theme will focus on Legend and Legacies.
Native and North Omaha historian, Professor Love from UNO’s Department of Black Studies explains the deeper importance of the parade.
“We’re going to enter this June into the marvelous celebration of the emancipation of the African American community,” he said.
Following the Juneteenth parade, the Omaha community is also invited to attend the Freedom Festival which will educate, empower, and entrain Omaha.
Professor Love also states that the parade and festival are more than just a celebration, that many moving parts like the history, culture, education, and more make up Juneteenth
You can learn more about the parade at NAACP Juneteenth Parade Celebration, Omaha NE. on Facebook.
