SPOKANE, Wash. – Spokane hosted several Juneteenth celebrations, marking the federal holiday that honors the end of slavery in the United States. One of the notable events took place at Gonzaga’s Hemmingson Center.
The Spokane NAACP organized a fireside chat featuring local activist and musician Alethea Dumas. Spokane’s first ‘Miss Juneteenth Court’ was introduced, and former Seahawks Super Bowl champion Cliff Avril participated in the discussion.
The event centered on themes of unity, mentorship and the role of community in raising the next generation.
“Juneteenth is especially important to the Black community, and being able to have someone of his stature come and pour into our community was fabulous,” NAACP Spokane President Lisa Gardner stated.
Gardner expressed hope that attendees left feeling inspired and reminded that building a stronger future begins with investing in today’s youth.
