Dear Friends,

What a marvelous coming together of several hundred Arizonians on Sunday, also Father’s Day, to honor and celebrate Juneteenth in Arizona!

What is behind this new Federal Holiday? On June 19, 1865, enslaved people in Texas finally learned they were free. Fact is, they had been free since 1863 through President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation Act.  

Extra special highlights were:— The Negro National Anthem, sung by Joyce “The Voice” Bailey (pictured).Migrating Through History with Keynote Speakers Dr. Lester and Kareem Neal – and their stories.– Oral Histories and You – presented by Jessica Salow.– Timber Industry for employment of skilled African Americans who migrated to the White Mountains for work.  — Dancers Micah Joella and Leila McWhite – touching, educational, and brought tears to many.

We left with full hearts and some tears that were still fresh. It was a beautiful event full of connections and learning, yet it reminded us of some essential “Golden” principles as we strive harder to care for one another: Kindness, Empathy, Civility and Respect.

It is our hope and prayer that these Golden guideposts help us to do just that.
Blessings and hope,Rev. Larry Fultz, Executive Director

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