KALAMAZOO, MI (May 7, 2024)––Rootead Enrichment Center will host its third annual Juneteenth celebration at Bronson Park in Kalamazoo on Saturday, June 15. The event will run from 3:00pm to 9:00pm and is free and open to the public of all ages. The theme this year is Celebrating Afro-Caribbean Culture.
“This will be an expression of Black freedom and liberation,” said Heather Mitchell, Youth Enrichment Manager. “We’re bringing a new energy and feel to the celebration this year that will help people learn more about the meaning of Juneteenth and experience a taste of Afro-Caribbean culture.”
The theme for this year’s celebration was chosen because Afro-Caribbean culture is a part of the African diaspora that doesn’t get a lot of recognition in the Kalamazoo area, according to Rootead staff. As a part of the celebration, food and art will be available to purchase from local food trucks and artisans. Several local organizations and businesses will also have tables offering information and resources.
The event has been extended to “give folks time to spend more time together outside enjoying community and dance,” said Mitchell. Performances by the Rootead Youth Drum & Dance Ensemble (RYDDE) and other local youth dance and music companies honoring Afro-Caribbean culture will take place from 3pm to 7pm. Both RYDDE and other local youth dance and music companies will be performing pieces that honor Afro-Caribbean culture. RYDDE’s performance will be choreographed by Seycon Nadia, choreographer, activist, and founder of the West Indian American (WIA) Tribe. Seycon is well-versed in traditional Caribbean culture and will be educating RYDDE youth on the culture from which the dances hail.
A community dance party will follow the performances and close out the event. The celebration will once again be emceed by educator, poet, and hip hop artist Dr. Kandace Lavender, and DJed by DJ Boogie during the day and DJ Sanjay for the community dance party.
This year’s event will also feature a play area for children, an area for parents and babies to relax together, a wellness area, and an artist’s corner hosted in collaboration with Black Arts & Cultural Center.
“Tell ya mama, sisters, brothers, and cousins to come celebrate with us! Invite everybody,” said Mitchell.
###
Rootead is a nonprofit organization that centers the lived experiences of Black and Indigenous people of color by providing connection and support through birth justice, youth empowerment, and community healing. Find more information about the Juneteenth Celebration at www.rootead.org.
