Gulfport City-Wide Juneteenth Celebration Marks 25th Anniversary with “A Silver Jubilee for Freedom”

Gulfport, MS — The Griots Society of Gulfport and its Juneteenth Committee are proud to announce the 25th Anniversary Commemoration of the Gulfport City-Wide Juneteenth Celebration with a week-long series of events honoring African American heritage, culture, and freedom. The 5th Annual Freedom Week Celebration will take place from June 17 - 22, 2025, with the theme, “A Silver Jubilee for Freedom: Celebrating Juneteenth in Gulfport for over 25 Years.”

The celebration kicks off with Afro-Kids Culture Camp on June 17, including African drumming, storytelling, arts workshops, and history lessons. Over the course of the week, a variety of events will cater to all ages, focusing on career development, community service, cultural festivities, and more.

Event Highlights Include:

• Afro-Kids Culture Camp (June 17): A fun and educational experience for children, centered around African traditions and history.

• Career & Possibilities Expo (June 18): Featuring career exploration, STEM activities, and the “Young & Dreaming” panel discussion.

• State of the Community Address (June 18): Gulfport’s Mayor will give a keynote address on the progress of the community, followed by a Q&A session with local leaders.

• Harry C. Tartt Ecumenical Service (June 19): An interfaith service honoring African American spiritual heritage with gospel music and reflections on justice and freedom.

• Griots Society Annual Luncheon (June 20): A keynote speaker and the presentation of the Annual Awards to outstanding community members.

• Daiquiris & Dashikis Street Party (June 20): A lively evening of music, dance, and celebration of African heritage.

• City-Wide Day of Service (June 21): Neighborhood cleanups and community service projects throughout Gulfport.

• 25th Anniversary Party (June 21): A formal celebration with live entertainment and a champagne toast, marking 25 years of Juneteenth in Gulfport.

• Juneteenth Freedom Festival (June 22): The week culminates with a festival featuring live music, local vendors, kids' activities, and a fashion show celebrating African fashion and style.

“This year marks a momentous occasion as we reflect on 25 years of honoring freedom, resilience, and progress in Gulfport,” said Bobby Hudson III, Executive Director of the Griots Society. “We invite everyone to come out, celebrate, and take part in these impactful events as we commemorate this milestone together.”

For more information about the Gulfport Juneteenth Celebration, event details, or to volunteer, please contact Alicia Fairley, Deputy Director at deputy@griotsgpt.org or visit our website at www.griotsgpt.org.

About the Griots Society

The Griots Society of Gulfport is an organization dedicated to preserving and promoting African American heritage and culture. Through education, community engagement, and leadership development, the Griots Society aims to foster pride, unity, and empowerment within the Gulfport community and beyond.