HISTORY
The Story of Juneteenth Douglass
Initially organized by Glynn Johns Reed in 1993 to raise awareness about our heritage and culture within the community, the Juneteenth Freedom & Heritage Festival has evolved into a celebration that spans three decades, highlighting the perseverance, resilience, and strength of our people and communities!
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In 1993, Glynn Johns Reed organized Memphis’ first Juneteenth Festival in Douglass Park.
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For 20 years, Auntie Glynn hosted the biggest party in North Memphis with superstar performers like The Bar-Kays, Cameo, & Slave!
THE LEGACY CONTINUES
KATHY TEMPLE
Producer
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In 2016, Kathy stepped in to continue her aunt’s legacy by reorganizing the Juneteenth Freedom Festival into a community culture festival that highlights upcoming 901 artists and showcases our achievements.
JUSTIN MERRICK
Co-Producer
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Justin joined Juneteenth Douglass in 2020 at the start of the pandemic as an Artistic Director, and now as Co-Producer bringing artistic vision & passion for the culture to nourish our roots.