Elizabeth City to Mark 10th Annual Juneteenth Celebration June 18 at Waterfront Park

Contact: Elizabeth Evans

Number: (757)-750-7153

(Elizabeth City, N.C., June 13, 2011) – When President Abraham Lincoln signed the “Emancipation Proclamation” Jan. 1, 1863, slaves in Texas did not receive the news until nearly two and-a-half years later, on June 19, 1865. The following year, the first observance of “Juneteenth” took place, and this celebration of freedom has since been embraced by communities throughout the United States.

Elizabeth City is no exception, and the River City Community Development Corporation (RCCDC) will host its 10th Annual Juneteenth Celebration Saturday, June 18, from 12 to 9 p.m. at Waterfront Park. A featured part of the celebration is the reading of the “Emancipation Proclamation,” followed by speeches, songs and fellowship—along with delicious ethnic foods, craft sales, children’s activities and entertainment.

“Juneteenth is all about freedom,” said RCCDC President Lenora Jarvis-Mackey. “Not just from slavery in America, but freedom to learn one’s roots and to join in one’s community, making it richer and stronger.”

The RCCDC, a nonprofit corporation, was established in 1990 to enhance the quality of life for residents within the Elizabeth City-Pasquotank area of North Carolina. River City Community Development Corporation envisions a future of strong community economic development programs creating an environment where all residents will be encouraged and supported to achieve their highest potential. For information about the Juneteenth Celebration, visit www.rivercitycdc.org or call (252) 331-2925.

About Elizabeth City

Elizabeth City is located in Northeastern North Carolina on the Intrascoastal Waterway, halfway between Virginia Beach and the Outer Banks. Known as the “Harbor of Hospitality®,” the city has six National Register Historic Districts and is home to the Museum of the Albemarle, The Center at Arts of the Albemarle, Elizabeth City State University Planetarium, Port Discover Hands-on Science Center and the nation’s largest U.S. Coast Guard base. Nature-based travelers are drawn to the area’s proximity to Dismal Swamp and the abundance of outdoor recreational offerings. For additional information, call Elizabeth City Area Convention & Visitors Bureau at 1-866-ECity-4U (1-866-324-8948) or (252) 335-5330 or visit www.DiscoverElizabethCity.com. For up-to-date info on area happenings and events, visit www.ElizabethCityHASit.com