Juneteenth Celebration

Historic St. Mary CME Church, Searcy, AR is hosting its first Juneteenth Celebration
recognizing the end of slavery on the weekend of June 10-11, 2022, at 6pm nightly. This
event is designed to promote diversity in a community that has only a 4.6% African American
population, according to census.gov. While there have been some recent celebrations in
Searcy, AR, this event is one of if not the first to be held in the heart of the minority
community.

On Friday, June 10, St. Mary will host a program and reception that highlight minority owned
businesses. Rev. Maurice Tyson, Assistant Pastor of Centennial Baptist Church, Kensett, AR
will be the featured speaker. On Saturday, June 11, a block party will feature guest speaker,
Rev. Azavias Clark, Pastor of New St. John, Jonesboro, AR. Additionally, choir performances,
free food, games, door prizes, music, and attractions designed for the youth will be available.
Chair Jeanette Williams stated that ”St. Mary is happy with the great response from the
community. We want to continue to transform Searcy into a community that shows love and
equality for all of God’s children. Honoring our past while celebrating our differences is a
wonderful way to accomplish this.”

Traditionally, Juneteenth is celebrated on the weekend of June 19. St. Mary chose to
celebrate a week early to give the community a first-hand positive experience in the Black
community while honoring the other celebrations on the traditional weekend.

Along with the community at large, guests from all over the city and State are expected to
participate in this year’s Juneteenth. City of Searcy elected officials, fire and police
departments, National Guard, and private businesses are confirmed attendees.

This rare event held in a minority community of Searcy is expected to highlight the positive
aspects of Searcy through diversity. People from all walks of life will experience a wholesome
time. This project would not be possible without support from the entire community.

#ENDS

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ABOUT St. Mary CME Church

St. Mary Christian Methodist Episcopal Church is 136 years old, located at 205 S. Sowell
Street, Searcy, AR.

For interviews and or photo opportunities please contact Rev. Gary S.

Clay, Pastor, at (870) 243-8123 or Sis. Jeaentte Williams, Chair, at (501) 593-7476.