“ I am a community advocate , actively involved in my community , and strive to make impactful and positive changes . To some degree , I consider myself a change agent .”
The Southside Library Boosters primarily sponsor events that reflect African-American history and traditions .
“ In January , we do a Dr . Martin Luther King Jr . essay contest . In February , we do Black History Month activities such as a festival and a museum on wheels that features art forms including music , dance , poetry / creative writing , painting and sculptures . We do the Juneteenth Festival in June , but it has not occurred for the past two years due to the pandemic , but it is returning this year . We do a Bookyard Barbecue that discusses one or two books in October . In December , we do a Kwanzaa celebration .”
The Juneteenth Festival is the booster ’ s premier event and spans three days .
“ This year , Black Tuesday is June 14 , and we will support Black Businesses that support the library . On Friday , June 17 , from 3-8 p . m ., we will integrate elements of our BookYard Barbecue at the Lowndes County Civic Center ,” Blake said . “ There will be theatrical performances , poetry and a barbecue . On Saturday , June 18 , our Juneteenth Festival will include vendors , local artist entertainment , Village of Aya dance troupe and drummers , a mini-band from one of the churches , dinner , dancing and fireworks .”
As of 2021 , Juneteenth is now a federal holiday that commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African-Americans . The actual Juneteenth date is June 19 , originating in Galveston , Texas , but the federal holiday will be observed on Monday , June 20 , 2022 .
Blake invites the community to celebrate Juneteenth with Southside Library Boosters and learn more about the library .
She said , “ The first plan for a renovation / addition project for the library is in the works . The construction project will add four study rooms , a larger meeting room , a full-service children ’ s area and teen space to the facility . The interior of the facility would also receive updating . We want to make a difference in the community and the library patrons ’ lives .”
To learn more about the Southside Library Boosters , go to their Facebook page @ southsidelibrayboostersinc .
June 2022 | Valdosta Scene 25