Juneteenth celebrations continue in Eugene

The event was held at Alton Baker Park.

80 degrees inland.

Yesterday was juneteenth.

The day that marks when the last slaves in america learned they were free.

But more than a century later -- the fight to end sis- temic racism and injustice continues.

Kezi 9 news reporter kennedy dendy joins us live from alton baker park where the celebrations are continuing into the weekend.

And kennedy -- this year juneteenth holds a*new*significance for many.

That's exactly right jillian.

The celebration of emancipation comes amid protests highlighting racial injustice -- so this year -- many are choosing to use the holiday to fight for greater change in the future -- all while still remembering their past.

The juneteenth celebration today started at noon and will go until around 7 o clock tonight, and it's hosted by eugene's black led action coalition, xscape dance academy and a group called honoring our new ethnic youth.

It has been a packed house* all day and people are continuing to fill in.

Many share that the goal is to celebrate black culture, using today to come together and voice their frustrations and sadness over the brutality that many blacks feel in america.

All while educating the community and focusing on ways to make real and lasting change.

Hoping to spread the light that we bring as beautiful black people and as an african, i feel like its important for me to come and support my family and brothers and sisters who were once enslaved an on this day we celebrate their freedom?

Today -- there was already a presentation with the history of juneteenth -- the black national anthem was sang -- and performances by local black singers and dancers.

I know many people have concerns about the spread of the virus at large events like these.

But -- as far as ive seen -- most people are wearing masks and social distancing.

Organizers are even giving out masks to those who don't have one.

Coming up at 6 -- hear why one eugene resident says this celebration is important regardless of the color of your skin.

Live in eugene, kennedy dendy kezi 9 news.