“Can We Talk ?”

By Tisha Burgos

June is a big month for Western New York. Many of us come together in honor of so-called Black liberation (1865). In fact, it is considered Black and dependence day where people come and embrace the culture, watch parades, listen to beautiful music, and check out African art.

Juneteenth in Buffalo, New York is considered one of the largest events in the country. Many out-of-towners come to enjoy and embrace the culture – not just within our states, but other countries as well according to Jomo Ocono, Executive Director of Juneteenth.

This year Destiny Anderson Co-Chair of Juneteenth is focused on our teenagers not feeling excluded or for gotten. There will be best dress and plenty of prizes every 15 minutes. In my youth I can remember being a part of the parade. Walking boldly, holding a huge sign with the rest of my girlscouts. I felt it then, and I feel it now.

Confidence, Awareness, Strength, Value, and Love. Never forget the love. To learn and embrace one another. You can find something the same in each of us no matter life journey we took. Juneteenth is that come together moment. Educate yourself and enjoy it!