LET FREEDOM RING
Taylor takes to the street to celebrate J uneteenth
The Taylor community lined Main Street downtown Saturday morning as dignitaries, supporters and a parade celebrated Juneteenth and freedom.
Afterward, onlookers and participants alike were treated to a free brunch of waffles and sausage at the Dickey-Givens Community Center, 1009 E. MLK Jr. Blvd.
“We are just out here to celebrate freedom and to connect with the community. It’s really important that we continue these traditions in light of the political unrest and all of the changes,” said Nakevia Miller, chairwoman of the Taylor Juneteenth Committee.
Juneteenth, which is also known as Freedom Day or Juneteenth Independence Day, commemorates the announcement in Galveston by federal troops on June 19, 1865, when enslaved Texans learned of their emancipation. President Joe Biden made June 19 a federal holiday in 2021.
The local celebration on June 21 involved a collaboration between the city and the private sector. City Council members and municipal staffers showed up to march in the morning parade and attended the festival Saturday evening.
“This is an annual event for us, the city of Taylor in Texas. Since I was a little boy, Murphy Park would be filled every Juneteenth,” said Mayor Dwayne Ariola. “This is just carrying on a tradition. This new national recognition is just that, it’s new. Texas has always represented and always celebrated Juneteenth. It’s vitally important.”
Ariola took part in the parade and also tried a few dance moves at the festival as attendees enjoyed line dancing, gospel music and live entertainment.
“It’s such a huge part of our history and we need to take part in it and remember. It was a day that changed our nation.
It’s a day that freedom rang for everyone,” said Williamson County Precinct 4 Constable Paul Leal, who drove his truck in the parade.
Angie Avilas, co-captain of the Taylor High School Color Guard, said her group was marching to recognize an important historical event.
“I want to help the community by showing support. We have a really diverse team and we have all kinds of people and I think it’s good that we’re here to support that,” she said.
Beverley Aikens said she has participated in Taylor’s Juneteenth celebration every year for decades and is always joyful to see the community come together.
“It’s being part of history, and we’re learning about the history of Juneteenth. I’m just proud to be a part of it and I’m happy to do whatever I can to make it better every year,” she said.
