A Joyous Juneteenth

Salvation Dance/ LM Dance in collaboration with Kingdom Reign perform “POWER” by Marvin Sapp. *Photo credit: Justin Tyson*

This is the third year St. Nicks Alliance has hosted a Juneteenth celebration and the second year that P.S. 250 was its home. This celebration of Freedom Day was held on June 13.

Lacresha Berry (aka Berry) was this year’s emcee *Photo credit: Justin Tyson*

Lacresha Berry (aka Berry) emceed the performances and at the halfway mark performed her own spoken word poetry: “Freedom Over Everything” and “Celebration”. Berry is a spoken word artist, poet, singer, actor, and published author. Berry is also a middle school educator, curriculum writer, and staff developer for St. Nicks Alliance.

The Madiba Prep Step Team composed of sixth graders and led by Nicole Barnewell was the first act to step on stage.

Naomi P. Ebouki, Tyheese Moulterie, and Savannah Smith sing *The Black National Anthem*. *Photo credit: Michael Rochford*

Then Naomi P. Ebouki, Tyheese Moulterie, and Savannah Smith sung the Black National Anthem, and were accompanied on piano by Syl DuBenion.

Rap, bucket drummers (sixth-, seventh-, and eighth-grade students from M.S. 582), and a dance performed by Salvation Dance/ LM Dance in collaboration with Kingdom Reign rounded out the performances.

Carmelo Hitt, eighth grader at M. S. 582 received a Juneteenth award. He is accompanied by Steven Maldonado, assistant director of School Settlement Association’s Afterschool Center at M.S. 582 *Photo credit: Justin Tyson*

Awards were also presented to students who have shown growth, leadership, or have inspired others as a positive role model. This year’s awardees were: Carmelo Hitt, eighth grader at M.S. 582; Samara Romain, seventh grader at Madiba Prep; Wilmot Savice III, fifth grader at P.S. 147; Raven Jones, fifth grader at P.S. 250; and Deavion Douglas, fifth grader at P.S. 18.

St. Nicks Alliance staff and board members visit artist/author Dr. Lorenzo Pace at his book signing station. (l to r) Michael Rochford (St. Nicks Alliance executive director), Geraldine Lawrence (Cooper Park Resident Council), Theresa Womble (St. Nicks Alliance Board and Williamsburg Houses Tenant Association) Debra Benders (St. Nicks Alliance Board and Cooper Park Resident Council), Dr. Lorenzo Pace, Ed Brittenham (St. Nicks Alliance Board), and Sarah Lorya (St. Nicks Alliance) *Photo credit: Michael Rochford*

In addition, there was a book signing with local artist and author Dr. Lorenzo Pace, and activity stations that offered arts and craft making and games. Food and refreshments were also provided.