The Juneteenth Celebration in Greater Burlington, traditionally held in DeEdwin & Gladys White Park, continues to grow in involvment and impact. For the past few years, the driving force behind the event has been Lavonna Bennamon. Below, Lavonna discusses how she got involved in organizing the event, and how she aims to better the quality of life for all in Greater Burlington.
When did you get involved in organizing the Juneteenth Celebration?
“I got involved when Covid had hit, and the NAACP was not going to do it that year. So my Pastor is Pastor Fred Starling at the Faith Temple Church of God in Christ, so I got involved with that. That’s around when Covid had started.”
Had you ever organized an event like this?
“No, I had not organized an event like this. I got help from good friend Della (Schmidt, Greater Burlington Partnership President and CEO). Della had given me pointers. I met with her all month, she gave me tips and pointers. And of course Carol (Bartles) helped me from South Hill, I’m part of the South Hill Neighborhood Association, too. I got behind the scenes help, because the first time I didn’t know what I was doing, but I knew what I wanted to do. Pastor Fred Starling helps me a lot.”
What feedback have you received about the event?
“People have been enjoying it, so this year I’m planning to have more people get involved. So that’s my whole dream, is to get the community involved. Not only businesses, but people who actually live here… children, adults. I’m just trying to bring the neighborhood together.”
What do you want people to know about the Juneteenth Celebration?
“I would want them to know that they’re more than welcome to be there. It’s a positive environment. It’s a celebration going on… fun and laughter.”
