Nations Tobin Park was alive this past weekend with the heartbeat of the community. Black El Paso Voice and the City of El Paso Parks and Recreation Department joined forces for the second time—and third Juneteenth celebration overall—to deliver an unforgettable event full of pride, purpose, and pure joy.
From the first handshake to the last beat of the drum, this Juneteenth celebration was a living portrait of what happens when a community shows up with heart, purpose, and pride.
Families from every corner of the city gathered early, welcomed by friendly volunteers, a sea of smiling faces, and the unmistakable sounds of Black joy—music, laughter, and fellowship. Local vendors lined the walkways, offering a diverse range of items, from delicious food to handmade crafts, books, and resources from several city departments. The heat was no match for the spirit of celebration—and with the help of Kona Ice and Heavenly Popsicle, everyone stayed refreshed.
At the heart of the program was a powerful representation. El Paso’s own Mayor Renard Johnson and City Manager Dionne Mack, the city’s top two officials, were present and deeply engaged, offering words that inspired hope and pride. Their presence, as Black leaders in the highest seats of city government, did not go unnoticed—especially by the youth.
The spoken word from Danesha Shipman reached deep, reminding attendees of the unshakeable strength of our ancestors and the road still ahead. 2024 BEP Voice Youth of the Year, Montraviah Legg, moved the audience with a passionate recital of Maya Angelou’s “Still I Rise,” embodying grace, confidence, and promise.
Musical and artistic performances from Alissa Saenz, The AJM Collective, Dendre Wright, the Jamal Streeter Band, and 2025 El Paso Black Hall of Fame Inductee Billy Townes made the stage a sacred space. Line dancing led by Stephanie D. Allen and the StepD & Company team—complete with community favorite Fletcher hyping the crowd—had folks of all ages on their feet.
“This year’s Juneteenth celebration showed what can happen when genuine community leaders and city leadership unite with a common goal,” said Monica Tucker, founder of Black El Paso Voice. “I am so overwhelmed by the love and support from the community, especially El Paso Parks and Recreation. Juneteenth is every day. We must remember our freedoms.”
The event also served as a vital connection point. More than 40 participating organizations and vendors shared resources and support—from public health services and immunizations to book giveaways and business outreach. The Holy Royal Arch Masons, Chapter No. 90, returned with their signature generosity—serving free food and collecting books for the community.
Special thanks to Dr. Jackeline Biddle Richard, who offered resources on domestic violence prevention and supported the distribution of the Juneteenth Journal, and to elder Anna M. Harris-Howell, whose presence and thoughtful care (including bringing ice!) reminded us all of the power of community wisdom.
As the evening drew to a close, it was clear that this was more than an event—it was a movement rooted in history, joy, and purpose.
Thank you to El Paso. Thank you to the volunteers. And thank you to the ancestors. Until June 13-20, 2026—we look forward to seeing you again.
C’ri is a passionate writer with an insatiable appetite for storytelling in all its forms. You’ll likely find her curled up with a good book or immersed in the latest blockbuster at her local cinema when she’s not crafting articles. Jane’s knack for staying on top of current events adds depth to her writing, while her laid-back personality brings a refreshing perspective to even the most complex topics. With a cup of tea and her finger on the pulse of pop culture, C’ri transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary one word at a time.