LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) – Juneteenth celebrates the Emancipation Proclamation which signified the beginning of the end of slavery in the US in 1865

“Freedom is not something to take for granted,” said participant John Milton, “It took a lot of sacrifice of a lot of people, a lot of our ancestors died that so we might be free and today we celebrate that”

June 19th was declared “Juneteenth” and has inspired celebrations across the south.

“The demonstration that was given to us by those in Texas, on Juneteeth, the original celebration, is that no matter what, with God on our side it’s time to celebrate and liberation is just that important,” said Milton.

Those who attended the event at Hymann Parc experienced authentic music, food, dances and more.

“Celebrate and bring the community together to bond and just to celebrate the heritage,” said musician Joseph Breaux.

“Just remember,” said Milton, “If you don’t celebrate your own culture, who will.”

Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration commemorating the ending of slavery in the United States.