The Picayune Carver Culture Center (PCCC) Youth Enrichment Program (Y.E.P.) Summer Camp observed Juneteenth as a national holiday for the first time on Wednesday, June 19, 2024. The event followed the Pearl River County Juneteenth celebration held on Saturday, June 15, at J.P. Johnson Park on Rosa Street.

Participants from the Y.E.P. program attended the earlier event, where keynote speakers Anthony Hales Sr. and Reginald Oliver provided insights into the significance of Juneteenth. Hales spoke about freedom and unity, while Oliver detailed the history of Juneteenth, noting the Union Army’s enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation in Texas in 1865, which freed the remaining enslaved people in the United States. Juneteenth has been recognized in parts of the country since 1866, starting in Texas.

To commemorate Juneteenth, the Y.E.P. Summer Camp, with the help of volunteers, facilitated activities aimed at educating attendees about the day’s historical importance. The program included art, music, food, activities, movies, and discussions at the PCCC. Vinner Scott, PCCC Executive Director, also taught lessons regarding the daily lives of enslaved people, including their work and methods of entertainment.

“Here at Picayune Carver Culture Center, we strongly believe that learning our history should be enjoyable, interactive, and effective,” said Vinner Scott, PCCC Executive Director.