The Afro-American Heritage Association (AAHA) led this year’s Juneteenth celebration, bringing the community together around the themes of Freedom, Faith, and Fellowship. Traditionally organized by the NAACP, the event was entrusted to AAHA in recognition of its dedication to preserving and celebrating African American history and culture.
Held at Bellamy Harbor Park in Rome on Father’s Day, the celebration drew families and visitors from across the Mohawk Valley for a day filled with music, food, fellowship, and reflection. DJ entertainment kept the crowd energized with throwback hits from the 1970s through the 1990s, with many attendees dancing and enjoying the festive atmosphere.
“Juneteenth is a time for reflection, education, and unity,” said AAHA President Marilyn Hawkins. “We are proud to bring families together to celebrate our heritage while creating joyful experiences for the next generation.”
Children enjoyed bounce houses and free snow cones, while attendees explored vendor booths and participated in raffles throughout the day. Members of AAHA raffled off gift baskets and prizes, and even Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol joined in the fun, taking home one of the gift baskets.
One of the keynote speakers, Minister Courtney Muhammad of the Carol L. Crooms BECA Center, paid a heartfelt tribute to his late father by wearing a suit tailored for him in 1956. The Father’s Day gesture reflected his father’s legacy and added a personal touch to his message.
Minister Muhammad provided a historical overview of Juneteenth, discussing the significance of General Gordon Granger and General Order No. 3, which announced freedom to enslaved people in Texas in 1865. Drawing from the work of historian Carter G. Woodson, he encouraged attendees to understand Black history beyond slavery and noted that the Catholic Church and the Pope have acknowledged and apologized for the role religious institutions played in supporting enslavement and the global economy.
He reminded the audience that Juneteenth is not only a celebration of freedom, but also a day to reflect on how far society has come and what adaptations and progress are still needed.
Community organizations including Mohawk Valley Frontiers, the Oneida County Pride Association, and the Oneida County NAACP participated in the festivities, sharing information and resources with visitors.
Health and wellness were also part of the day’s activities, with the Mohawk Valley Health System providing free blood pressure screenings. Food vendors offered a variety of options, including fresh fish, healthy salads, fruit, and other summer favorites. Additional vendors featured handmade crafts, jewelry, cultural apparel, and specialty items.
The celebration honored the legacy of those who fought for freedom while fostering a spirit of community and fellowship. As music filled Bellamy Harbor and generations gathered together, the event served as a reminder that Juneteenth is both a commemoration of the past and a call to continue working toward justice, equality, and opportunity for all.
The Afro-American Heritage Association meets on the second Monday of each month and remains committed to preserving and promoting African American history and culture throughout the Mohawk Valley and beyond.
