Celebrations of “Black Independence Day” around the region included gatherings over music, food, community fellowship and — for the first time in Collinsville — a parade.
"We encourage our kids not only to remember your history, but to try to make history also,” said James Alexander, a staff sponsor of Collinsville High School’s Black Student Union, which hosts the event.
The route ended at the Collinsville Juneteenth Festival, a block party outside Old Herald Brewery and Distillery with food vendors, retailers and other groups. With that festival in its fourth year, organizers added a parade route to the 2024 schedule to increase visibility in the community.
“A lot of people didn't know about the festival until we started promoting the parade. Everybody loves parades,” said Alexander. “Everybody started getting more interested.”
Hundreds of people representing student groups, civic organizations and local businesses marched down Main Street on Wednesday morning, tossing candy and putting on a show for everyone who braved the heat.
Gerri Samuels staked out a spot in the shade to watch what she calls a highlight of raising her family in Collinsville.
"It says that this is a community that is building and building up our young people," she said. "We can sit together, be together, play together. My grandson goes to Collinsville High School, and we're proud to be a part of this."
Alexander says the event’s success has shown students they can embrace and celebrate culture in their communities.
"We’re trying to make sure wherever we go we are spreading insight about our culture. No matter if it’s Collinsville, Edwardsville — wherever," he said. "We've got to make sure you know where you come from and what we’re trying to get to."
Alexander said plans are already in motion for next year’s events — with an even bigger footprint downtown.
See more photos from Collinsville's Juneteenth celebration by Sophie Proe below:
