Inkster Senior Residents honored at Juneteenth Celebration

Inkster, MI

The Weslyn A. Bennett Foundation held its 3rd Annual Juneteenth Celebration on June 15, 2024 on the grounds of the Leanna Hicks Public Library in Inkster with more than 275 people in attendance.

97-year-old Inkster residents O.B. Thomas and Sarah D. Young were named Grand Marshals and honored at the Juneteenth Parade as Mr. Juneteenth and Mrs. Juneteenth. They were highlighted as they rode on the special Juneteenth float designed by The Parade Company.

Children that have participated in the Foundation's programs also participated in the parade and carried signs identifying the Inkster Mayor and Council. American International Academy (AIA) of Inkster Band, Zeta Amicae, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and Smith Chapel AME Church also walked the parade route followed by Scott the Stilt Walker.

The Foundation's permanent Juneteenth exhibit featured talking footprint boxes created by August S. Garrett. This year Inkster Mayor Byron H. Nolen and Inkster City Council were added to the permanent exhibit due to their historic approval of the first Juneteenth Parade held in the City of Inkster.

A ceremonial program followed to tell Why We Celebrate Juneteenth. Children enjoyed performances from Davian Bennett, AIA Choir and AIA String Ensemble, ALNUR-We RISE Dancers with special guest Issac Ryan Brown and music from the Lorenzo Rhodes Trio.

Juneteenth family scavenger hunt for special artifacts was enjoyed as well as Kona ice treats and celebration meal served in Black History shoe boxes from Cornbread restaurant.