Seaton and many others who attended the Farish Street Juneteenth celebration last weekend hope that Farish Street will one day operate like it did in early 1900’s. Farish Street was the “black mecca” after Jim Crow laws made it impossible for the South to segregate racially. It became one of the most progressive neighborhoods of black-owned homeowners and businesses during a period that lasted until the 1970’s. Seaton, a Jackson resident, says she has seen businesses close and open in Farish Street. “I shop here. Seaton stated that she hopes people will be able to find the money to put their businesses back here. Juneteenth marks the oldest commemoration of the United States’ annulment. The annual celebration was held on Farish Street this year by the city of Jackson, along with other partners. Legacy Builders, Inc., which was a non-profit organisation that supported Saturday’s event, is Keyana E. Hawthorne’s co-founder. This non-profit organization provides support, knowledge and support to empower communities. Hawthorne said, “We’re doing this parade because we want to show all of the different aspects that we have as a community.” Hawthorne said, “We are entrepreneurs, artists, teachers, and dancers.” She hopes that the festival will unite and educate people about black history, culture, and customs. D-Meezy is also known as David Mosley. Respect Our Black Dollars was founded by Mosley. This organization promotes black entrepreneurship and black buying. It also encourages economic and consumer literacy in black communities. Mosley also serves as a coordinator for the Jackson Juneteenth and Kwanzaa celebrations. Mosley led a demonstration of libations that opened the festival. “Have you ever heard the brothers around the corner say, “I’m just a pour out some liquor?” This is a form of libations. Another form of libations is a space at a table that has an empty seat. This allows for a little food and drink. The honoring your ancestors is all that matters. Water and plants are usually used. Mosley explained that water is the source of life, and plants are the symbol of growth. Mosley held the microphone towards the crowd and asked people to shout out the names of the dead. Mosley would repeat each name, pouring water into the plant, and the crowd would respond, “ashe,” which means “so it.” Mosley said that libations was an important and ancient practice for African-Americans. It is the continuous regeneration of energy. We must all remember this as human beings. So we don’t make the same mistakes again and can actually lift the greatness. This is the purpose of libations.” Over 30 black-owned businesses have set up tents in order to promote health, wellness, sell beauty and clothing supplies, paint faces, and sell specialty food. Pesto’s Vegetarian Cuisine and Catering is owned by Tierra Williams. She uses only organic products. Her specialty is Alizeti Pesto, Swahili meaning sunflower. Williams said, “We are trying make people healthier one dinner at a time.” Williams is also a member at Respect Our Black Dollars. She hopes Pesto’s can expand to become a grocery shop. She was able to meet other owners of black businesses through the festival. Hawthorne said, “I hope I can be able to circulate money within the black community. All our vendors are owned by blacks. We can only improve our financial situation if we all work together,” Hawthorne said. “I’ve seen so much of my old classmates, coworkers, and their families. Seaton said that it’s a good idea… It’s a great thing. Seaton makes every effort to support the Juneteenth programs and festivals in her hometown each year. He should love everyone, but it is also her responsibility as a parent to show him how to love his skin color. Seaton said, “I feel it’s my duty to bring him here to see people who are of color doing amazing things. To support this important work, you can make a regular donation to our Spring Member Drive today. Our reporters give a human face to policy’s impact on everyday Mississippians by listening more closely and understanding their communities. To ensure that our work is aligned with the priorities and needs of all Mississippians, we are listening to you. Click the button below to let us know what you think.