Eckstein Cultural Arts Center asks Glendale to declare Juneteenth as organizers preview June events

Bill Parrish, executive director of the Eckstein Cultural Arts Center, told the Glendale council on March 1 that the center and Landmark Church plan a Juneteenth celebration in June and asked the village to adopt a formal declaration to aid outreach and publicity.

Parrish described programming that includes signage to guide visitors, a “Freedom Journey” component linking local Underground Railroad sites with nearby Springboro, and a songs program featuring music from north and south traditions. He said regional partners and sponsors — including America 250 Ohio, Fifth Third Bank, Gorilla Glue and United Dairy Farmers — have committed support and the event will aim to be intentionally inclusive.

Parrish said the center plans to publicize the route in a web-enabled format by June and to invite surrounding communities to participate. He asked council to make a declaration recognizing Juneteenth to make it easier to engage the entire community and surrounding towns in promotion and participation.

Council did not take an immediate vote on a declaration at the meeting; Parrish said the center will continue planning and outreach with local partners.