Omaha Freedom Festival kicks off at Malcolm X Foundation Memorial

OMAHA, Neb. (KPTM) - Omaha's Freedom Festival was in full swing this Saturday as hundreds showed up to the Malcolm X Foundation Memorial.

The festival is put on to celebrate the Juneteenth holiday, the holiday which celebrates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans.

"They knew about the emancipation proclamation, but the people would not let the enslaved people go," said Cynthia Robinson, director of black studies at the University of Nebraska at Omaha.

She was referencing the south states which refused to recognize the end of the Civil War, and the freedom of slaves.

"General Granger's order No. 3, which was read on June 19th 1865 in Galveston, Tx," Robinson said. "It said, 'the people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with the proclamation from the executive of the United States, all slaves are free."

The letter from General Granger also stated how previously enslaved African Americans were to be treated moving forward.

"Right away, now, it is an employer and an employee...'good luck with that,'" Robinson said sarcastically.

Robinson was followed by many other speakers who touched on various subjects regarding the holiday, and it's history.

Councilmember Juanita Johnson was one of the many speakers on Saturday.

Preston Love also spoke at the event, though he focused more on the legacy of north Omaha.

She spoke on the vision she has for her district, and ways to accomplish those goals.

Booths spread out through the park with much to offer such as, food, games, and informational booths as well.

The event concluded with some live concerts performed by a variety of artists.