Utica, NY [May 2025] – Prof. Clemmie Harris, PhD of Utica University and former congressional candidate for NY-22, will be the keynote speaker at Utica’s official Juneteenth celebration to be held 12 noon to 4PM June19, 2025 at Hanna Park in Utica, NY. The event is sponsored by For the Good, Inc. in conjunction with Shattered, Rewire, Reboot, Inc.
Juneteenth commemorates America’s freedom from slavery and is a celebration of freedom, culture, and progress. The event at Hanna Park will honor this historic day through music, performance, speeches, and community engagement, reflecting the spirit of perseverance and unity that Juneteenth represents.
The brutality of Slavery in America was a unique form of apartheid that stole labor, prevented progress, and stifled economic advancement in Black America. This Juneteenth celebration focuses on the encouragement of inspirational speakers, outstanding local talent, fostering unity and resilience in the community and the wisdom and strength to overcome generational obstacles.
Organizer of the event, Richard Brown of SRR, Inc. states, “Guns and violence continue to claim lives and instill fear in our city. Socio-economic disparities, mental health issues, easy access to firearms, and cultural attitudes all need to be better understood. Knowledge is power. Our Juneteenth Event is designed to demonstrate that and provide alternatives to these destructive behaviors.”
Artistic Director is TK Howard, Sr. Music will be provided by Doc Woods and Friends. DJ Fire Wayne will provide sound and outstanding local talent such as Amos Donnell, Astena Smith, Theresa Mancuso and Dr. Michael Woods. Special appearances are possible.
Utica’s 2025 Juneteenth celebration offers individuals, vendors and corporations the opportunity to invest in and support the critical work of For The Good and Shattered, Rewire, Reboot, Inc. Sponsorship packages begin at $25,000 and are named after outstanding African American heroes. Special thanks to the Bank of Utica, the first to pledge ($2,500) at the Benjamin Banneker level.
