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Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The 31st annual 2-day Juneteenth celebration in Comer Cox Park is in full swing this weekend.
The festivities were kicked off Saturday morning with the Unity Parade, which beginning next year will have a new name. Mayor Misty Buscher issued a proclamation that June 14th is Tom McBride Sr. Day in Springfield and the Unity Parade will now be titled the Tom McBride Unity Parade.
Coach Tom McBride Sr. was the first black head football coach in Springfield leading Southeast High school from 1981 to 1986. He coached basketball, football, and track for over 30 years. McBride’s coaching excellence and profound impact on students has also been recognized through his inductions into multiple sports halls of fames. The Southeast Track was also named the Tom McBride Track earlier this year.
The celebration also features live music, over 20 vendors, games, prizes, and more.
Community Organizations such as the Springfield Urban League, Helping Hands, and the Poor People’s Campaign are taking part in the celebration to inform the community of resources available to them.
The celebration continues today from 10am to 9pm. The Juneteenth Outdoor Revival Celebration begins at 11am with Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church, which will honor freedom, faith, and community.