NEWS

Harold Rice, executive director of the Ada Jenkins Center, spoke to the crowd gathered for the Juneteenth Celebration.

In celebration of Juneteenth, the Ada Jenkins Center held their annual celebration event on Thursday, June 19, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Center. This community event was made possible thanks to sponsors like Energy United, Davidson College, Town of Davidson, and Art by Meredith Connelly.

This year’s event hosted 300+ attendees and had a new look and a more intentional focus on educating attendees on the history and importance of the African American neighborhoods in our LKN community. 

The FREE celebration and family day included:

• Simulated “neighborhood tours” of Smithville, Pottstown, and Davidson West
• Indoor crafts and activities including a Wall of History
• Music by DJ Kels
• Live musical performance by Robyn Springer and Jonathan French
• Spoken word poet Dede Phillips
• Non-profit + For-profit vendors in the business district
• A focus on Black-owned businesses
• Kids Zone
• Meals provided by Sandra Lees Country Kitchen

See photos and videos from the Juneteenth Celebration here. 

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The Ada Jenkins Center has stood in Davidson for more than 80 years as a hub for education and community services in northern Mecklenburg County. With services including social work case management; resources for housing, employment and finances; youth and adult education; and food pantry, we help people in our community create lasting solutions for economic stability.  Learn more: www.adajenkins.org .