Local leaders speak at the State of the Community address in Gulfport

GULFPORT, Miss. (WXXV)- With the official start of Juneteenth being Thursday, officials and community members from across Gulfport came together Wednesday night to highlight progress, but to also empower the city’s African American community.

Wednesday’s State of the Community was a part of Freedom Week. Residents gathered to hear from local leaders and even elected officials such as Mayor Elect Hugh Keating, Carissa Corbett, and Jeffrey Hulum III. They all shared their visions for driving meaningful change.

Attendees were able to ask questions and interact with leaders directly, having their voices heard for some of the most pressing issues in the community.

The fifth annual Gulfport Juneteenth Festival kicks off this Sunday at 3:19 p.m. at the Westside Park.