Community members celebrate Juneteenth in Biloxi

Juneteenth celebrations continue to grow year after year in Biloxi.

The City of Biloxi joined the Movers and Shakers Social Club in hosting its annual Juneteenth celebration over the weekend. It was a chance for friends and families to embrace African American history while remembering and acknowledging the many achievements of black and brown men and women. Nell Davis said, “It feels wonderful, wonderful. I’m so glad to see many people out here participating because this is our heritage.”

Becoming Women’s group used this time to make memories. Founder Mariah Beard said, “We like to spend time and build connections. So, that’s why we are here, make memories like she said, that’s what we are doing today.”

During Saturday’s festivities, Mayor Gilich presented Movers and Shakers Social Club with a Juneteenth proclamation. Blue Lotus Herbal Emporium Owner Natalie Bonner said, “It was so exciting for us to receive that proclamation from the mayor. Everyone pretty much understands the history of Juneteenth. Our nation came together to abolish slavery and we will continue to join together in unity as a nation, as a community to combat racism, to ensure that we have equal opportunity for all citizens and to better all of our communities and also to educate our youth.”

A new memorial is coming to Biloxi’s Front Beach to honor and recognize those who risked their lives in the Biloxi Wade-Ins. Gulf Coast Design Studio Founder David Perkes said, “What we’re doing today is we’re showing ideas to people here so we can get some good feedback and we’re excited. There seems to be wonderful community support and also support from the local leadership to be able to do something that’s certainly overdue.”