The second celebration of Juneteenth was held at Osborne Park Saturday, June 15, with a basketball tournament and other events commemorating the day all people in the United States were granted freedom.
President Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation freeing slaves on Jan. 1, 1863.
The Civil War ended April 9, 1865, and on June 19, 1865, the federal government formally stated that all people living in the United State, including former slaves, were officially granted freedom.
On June 17, 2021, President Joe Biden signed a bill into law, making the day known as Juneteenth a national holiday.
“This is the second year we have celebrated Juneteenth,” said Myeisha Warrior, organizer of the weekend’s events.
During the celebration, those who attended were told the history of Juneteenth and participated in a variety of events.
However, it was three-man-basketball (with one substitute on each team) that seemed to interest the young people most.
“It caught everyone’s attention,” Myeisha said.
Eight teams participated in the tournament, including teams from Eufaula, Oktaha, Muskogee, Tulsa and Oklahoma City.
The Oktaha team won the $400 prize money.
“The purpose of this event is to bring the community together and to explain Juneteenth and to provide a safe place for our youth. Give them something to do on weekends,” Myeisha said.
