Community leader fights to save Juneteenth celebration

During a recent government meeting, community member Penny Poole raised concerns regarding the future of the Juneteenth celebration in Norcross, which she has been instrumental in organizing for several years. Poole, a long-time resident and vendor, expressed her disappointment over the city’s decision to shift the event's management internally, which she believes undermines the community spirit and inclusivity that the celebration has fostered.

Poole recounted her personal history in Norcross, highlighting the town's rich African American heritage and the importance of community events that celebrate this culture. She noted that past Juneteenth celebrations included a variety of activities aimed at educating the public about African American history and fostering community engagement. However, this year, the event is scheduled for a significantly shorter duration and in a less accessible location, raising concerns about its impact and outreach.

The issue arose when Poole attempted to communicate with the new community sponsor, Jordan Douglas, who reportedly stopped responding to her inquiries. Following this, Poole received a letter from City Manager Eric Johnson stating that no third-party proposals had been submitted for the Juneteenth event, leading to the city’s decision to handle the event internally. Poole questioned this decision, emphasizing the successful collaboration with the city in previous years and the community's desire for an inclusive celebration.

In her address, Poole urged residents to engage with city officials to understand the rationale behind the changes and to advocate for the continuation of a vibrant Juneteenth celebration that honors the community's heritage. She expressed hope that the city would remain committed to inclusivity and community engagement moving forward.