Left to right: Melissa Woodyard, Chad Woodyard, Barbara McClane and Nzima Hutchings.
Photo credit: Mark Warnock
ENFIELD — Kuumba Kiongozi Black Legacy, Arts & Culture, a new nonprofit organization, will be hosting its first event, Strawberries and the African Diaspora: Celebrating Juneteenth.
The event will take place on June 19 at the Enfield Historical Society on 1294 Enfield St. from 4:30-7:30 p.m.
The doors will open at 4 p.m. It’s a free event featuring Strawberry Mocktail Sip & Paint, Enfield Poet Laureate Open Mic, Afro Diaspora Junk Journaling, Historical Storytelling & Convo and many more with strawberry refreshments and strawberry treats.
Chair Melissa Woodyard said, “As we share the meaning of the strawberry and Juneteenth through poetry, painting, journaling and storytelling, we hope to engage the community, build community and give awareness of the significance of Juneteenth as American History.”
Formed in 2025, KKBLAC advances the creative force of Black truth-telling, cultural memory, and intergenerational leadership. Through community-led arts programs, diaspora-focused partnerships and research-informed strategies, they support artists, scholars and culture bearers in shaping work grounded in history, equity, and connection. They build networks that heal, honor heritage and activate transformation across communities and generations. KKBLAC is comprised of Melissa Woodyard, Chad Woodyard, Nzima Hutchings (who are the co-founders), Barbara McClane and Michael Whilby. Currently, KKBLAC is developing a journal that Hutchings will publish. The journal will include affirmations, positive messaging, and writing prompts designed to inspire reflection, healing, and creativity.
Juneteenth is considered the longest-running African American holiday and has been called America’s second Independence Day. On Jan. 1, 1863, news of the Emancipation Proclamation had taken effect as all enslaved people in Confederate States were declared legally free. However, not everyone in the Confederate territory would immediately be free.
Though the Emancipation Proclamation was made effective in 1863, it could not be implemented in places still under Confederate control.
It wasn’t until 1865, after the 13th Amendment passed that the Emancipation Proclamation became national policy. When Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, Union Army General Gordon Granger announced that the more than 250,000 enslaved Black people in the state were freed by executive decree. This day would be known as “Juneteenth” by the newly free people in Texas. Juneteenth officially became a federal holiday on June 17, 2021. Traditionally, red foods and drinks are served on Juneteenth to commemorate the sacrifice of those who fought for freedom. Strawberries represent the sweetness of freedom and new beginnings.
“We want attendees to walk away feeling connected, empowered, and proud of the stories and contributions within our communities,” said McClane. “I hope they see that organizations like KKBLAC are committed to creating spaces where culture, creativity, healing, and community matter. Most importantly, I want people to remember that our stories have value, our voices deserve to be heard, and our collective history continues to shape future generations.”
Contact Kuumba Kiongozi Black Legacy, Arts & Culture at kkblac.25@gmail.com. To learn more information or updates on what the organization is up to follow them on Facebook.
