Juneteenth offers a moment for reflection, education, and celebration as we come together to honor the struggles and victories of the African American community.
On June 19, 1865, federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, where U.S. General Gordon Granger announced General Order No. 3, declaring that all enslaved individuals were free. The celebrations that followed this historic announcement became known as Juneteenth, and more than 150 years later, it stands as the longest-running African American holiday in the United States.
The significance of Juneteenth varies among the residents of Coastal Mississippi, but the unifying theme remains consistent: the importance of coming together as one.
As Mayor Billy Knight of Moss Point often states, “We are all in this together.” This sentiment was particularly evident in 2023 during the Juneteenth week, when an EF-2 tornado devastated nearly 100 homes and businesses in the community. He shared, “What this has shown me is that our people are resilient. In times of crisis, we come together to support one another. We may think we are divided, but events like these remind us that we are more united than we realize.”
For over a century, Bay St. Louis has celebrated three significant pillars of Coastal Black History: St. Rose de Lima Catholic Church, St. Augustine Seminary, and 100 Men Hall. Rachel Dangermond, the current owner of 100 Men Hall, emphasizes that the venue itself tells a story of Black self-reliance and community empowerment. This region, especially Bay St. Louis, is rich in Black culture and history.
Artis Burney, Executive Director of Cosmic Poetry Sanctuary in Vancleave, MS, agrees: “African American history is intricately woven into the fabric of American history—through artistic expression and various professional fields. We all come together to celebrate Black culture.”
Rip Daniels, owner of the Almanett Hotel & Bistro in Gulfport, articulates it best: “Black history is American history. When I think of Juneteenth, I feel a sense of pride as I pay tribute to those who fought for my freedom. It is a celebration of liberty—just as meaningful to us as the Fourth of July.”
Watch the video below for a detailed exploration of Juneteenth and its significance from one of our tourism partners, Rip Daniels.
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