Oglethorpe’s fourth annual Juneteenth celebration was a vibrant and meaningful event honoring Black history and culture. Held on campus, the event invited faculty and staff to learn more about the significance of the holiday and its traditions.
This year’s theme, “Doin’ It for the Culture: How Black Americans Shaped the Nation,” focused on education and historical storytelling. Staff members brought history to life through original skits about iconic Black figures, like Madame CJ Walker and the Black Panther Party.
“We wanted this to be impactful. In researching the Black Panther Party, we were inspired by the community building and support, so Michelle suggests we ask for volunteers to help support and be active in our OU community,” says Langston. “It was refreshing to have so many say yes!”
The following staff members participated in this year’s educational skits:
- Dr. Michelle Lyn, director of the counseling center
- Maya Wells, administrative assistant of campus operations
- Jamal Alleyne, maintenance technician
- Austin Rayford, director of equity and care
- Marisol Zacarias, intercultural center director
- Vernon Frazier, facilities plumber
Lecturer and part-time instructor of African American Studies, Marco Morris, also offered an engaging overview of the origins and significance of Juneteenth.
Acrylic on canvas
Walker State Prison, HeartBound Ministries
Art from the Inside, OUMA 2021
Courtesy of Betty Londergan and Lawrence Schall
The event was co-organized by Luetrell Langston ’24, facilities operations coordinator, Michelle Garrett, Campus Safety supervisor, and Autumn Johnson ’20, associate director of donor relations and stewardship. Thanks to support from the Counseling Center, attendees received free commemorative Juneteenth shirts. The Oglethorpe University Museum of Art and the University Archives co-sponsored the event by curating powerful exhibitions highlighting African-American history and art.
Faculty and staff wrapped up the day on their feet in a line dancing class taught by Dr. Lea Alford, associate professor of biology, moving in rhythm to music that has had a cultural impact.
“To have us come together to celebrate confirms to me that this institution sees me and is committed to including everyone,” says Langston. “Black history is American history, and continuing this celebration year after year will acknowledge the unfinished journey, promote education and awareness, and foster unity while reflecting on the past that makes us strong today.”
View a short video from the event here.
