Greenevers Mayor Diane Brown named Grand Marshal of Elizabethtown’s 2026 Juneteenth Parade

ELIZABETHTOWN, NC (WWAY) — Greenevers Mayor Diane Brown has been selected as the Grand Marshal for Elizabethtown’s Fourth Annual Juneteenth Parade, recognizing her years of public service, community leadership and commitment to helping others.

Brown, an entrepreneur and longtime advocate for community development, has served the Town of Greenevers as both a council member and mayor. Organizers said her dedication to fostering unity, equity and opportunity made her a fitting choice to lead this year’s Juneteenth celebration.

Brown said she is honored to serve as Grand Marshal and views the role as a symbol of the pride, strength and togetherness shared throughout the community.

“As mayor, I learned how vital it is to listen actively and collaborate with everyone,” Brown said. “Every voice matters, and together we can build a brighter future.”

In addition to her public service, Brown serves as senior associate to the president at the Mt. Calvary Center for Leadership Development in Wallace, where she helps connect individuals and families with essential resources and support services. She is also active in her church, New Christian Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Rose Hill.

Brown said her experiences in government, faith and community outreach have reinforced her belief that collaboration is the key to meaningful progress.

“Let’s make great things happen together,” Brown said, a phrase that has become her personal motto.

The Fourth Annual Juneteenth Parade will be held Saturday, June 20, in Elizabethtown. Parade participants will begin lining up at 9 a.m., with the parade stepping off at 11 a.m. from 805 W. Broad St.

Organizers invite residents from across the region to attend and celebrate freedom, unity and community during the annual event. Additional information is available by calling (910) 876-7905.