The Statesboro Youth Council marked a significant milestone this week, hosting its first-ever Juneteenth program at the Statesboro-Bulloch County Library on Monday, June 16th, at 10:30am.
This interactive, educational event, largely conceived and executed by the youth themselves, showcased a powerful partnership between the council and the library.
The event, which included songs, music, dances, bingo, an interactive "train ride" through different parts of the library, and a presentation about the meaning behind the food we eat in celebration of Juneteenth, had a dessert table full of decadent treats courtesy of Divine Elegance.
Dr. LaSara Mitchell, Program Coordinator, Statesboro Village Builders and Youth Council sponsor, expressed immense pride in the students' initiative and highlighted their ownership of the project.
"This is the very first time that the Statesboro Youth Council has partnered with the library to host a Juneteenth program," she confirmed. "I think they did a fantastic job manifesting what Juneteenth is to them and what it means to our community."
Dr. Mitchell emphasized the universal significance of this important holiday.
"Juneteenth is just not about the African American culture, it is for everybody," she states. "It's a celebration of resilience. It's a celebration of being educated, of who we are, and where we come from, and it's a responsibility of how we move forward together as an people."
Cindy Hatchell, Assistant Library Manager, enjoys the partnership between the Statesboro-Bulloch County Library and the Youth Council.
"They're just great kids," Hatchell says. "They're just so fun to work with and they're easy to work with because they take charge; they have great ideas; they put it together."
The Statesboro Youth Council empowers kids in grades 6-12 to become productive citizens and leaders through active participation, civic engagement, advocacy, and leadership development. Integral member Jakenzie Ellrod challenged herself to try something different, so she applied to be a part of a group who is affecting positive change.
"I just did something to get out of my comfort zone and do something I wouldn't do. I really like doing this," Ellrod says.
Alan Beasley, another dedicated member, echoed this sentiment of personal growth and community involvement.
"I wanted to take a chance at life, get out of my comfort zone as well, and be able to understand leadership. I also want to evolve myself as a person and be a part of the community in this world," he explained.
The Statesboro Youth Council's first Juneteenth event was a resounding success, highlighting the talent, initiative, and community spirit of its young members.
Click here for more information about the Statesboro Youth Council or the Statesboro-Bulloch County Library.
