Saint Paul Council honors Rose McGee, adopts resolution marking 30 years of 'Kumbaya, the Juneteenth Story'

The Saint Paul City Council on July 9 adopted a resolution honoring Rose McGee and the Kumbaya Juneteenth play on its 30th anniversary.

Miss Johnson introduced Rose McGee to the council and read the resolution, saying the council “recognizes and uplifts the tremendous contributions of artists” and specifically congratulated Kumbaya, the Juneteenth Story, on its 30th anniversary. Rose McGee thanked the council and described developing the production to teach students about Juneteenth, saying the project grew out of work with ArtsUS and involvement by Tony Carter and others.

Supporters noted the play’s role in filling gaps in school curricula and connecting community members. In her remarks, McGee recounted learning in Ghana and incorporating that history into the performance; she quoted Frederick Douglass, saying, “if there is no struggle there is no progress.” Michael John Peace, president and chief parks champion of the Saint Paul Parks Conservancy, also praised the production and thanked staff and volunteers who supported the play.

The council placed the resolution on the record, moved approval and recorded a unanimous vote of seven in favor. The resolution expresses gratitude for the play’s educational role and its contributions to uplifting Black history in Saint Paul.

The resolution is a formal recognition by the council; no further council action was required.