Emancipation Day Celebration

Denise Vickers-Leon
ECB Publishing, Inc.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center organized several events to commemorate Florida Emancipation Day, which is recognized on May 20. On that date in 1865, a ceremony was held announcing the proclamation of President Abraham Lincoln's freeing of slaves in Florida.
Students at Jefferson County K-12 were enlightened on the history and traditions of Emancipation Day here in Monticello at a program held at the school on May 12. The celebration continued on Monday, May 15, beginning with a parade that morning. Although there weren't as many participants as hopefully anticipated, kudos go out to all departments of Monticello and Jefferson County municipal agencies but it was the kids from the Jefferson JROTC and Junior running back Travis Keaton who took command of the route.
Under the watchful eye of 1st Sgt. Terry Walker, the students were led by Battalion Commander, Desmond Whitfield. It was clear to everyone within earshot that Whitfield was in charge when he yelled to one cadet, “Pull your pants up and boy, don't play with me.” As they marched the almost two miles, in the scorching heat, to the MLK Community Center, no one missed a step. The number of onlookers increased as the parade neared 1st St., where organizers were waiting with free activities and food for all. Neil Barnhart was on site offering for sale his original artwork, hand carved walking canes and pecans.
The program opened with the welcome and occasion by Sylvia Sheffield, followed by a prayer and blessing of the food by Terry Preston. A history of Emancipation Day was given by John Nelson of the VFW.
The MLK Community Center is nestled in a large field at end of 1st St. From the outside, one may see it as simply an old structure on impeccably manicured grass but it is far beyond that assumption. Inside the spacious building, which has the capacity to accommodate up to 250 people, there is a stage, a large kitchen, which was utilized to the fullest with outstanding results, and a wealth of historical and original artwork, pictures and posters depicting the trials and triumphs of African-Americans throughout the centuries.
Director of the center, Charles Parrish and his wife Gwenith, greeted each visitor at the door. Idella Scott, chairperson of center and event organizer, lamented that because of Covid-19, attendance fell to an all time low. They're now holding monthly special events to get the public back in the doors. When asked what would they want the people of Monticello to know about the MLK Community Center, Gwenith Parrish said, “This place is a legacy based upon legends. We advocate teaching others, especially children and young adults, how to not just survive but thrive. We encourage health, wealth and education.”
Based on the ultimate success of this year's event, it is easy to imagine just how much bigger and better it will be next year. Until then, to inquire about upcoming events, contact Charles Parrish at (850) 997-3760.