Juneteenth celebration and parade held in Southport

SOUTHPORT, NC (WWAY) — A week of Juneteenth events in the Cape Fear wrapped up with a parade and celebration in Southport on Saturday. 

The family friendly event hosted food, music, vendors and more. The event is organized by the Southport Unity Committee, which is dedicated to bringing together community members of different races, religions, and backgrounds.

Mayor Rich Alt and the Southport Police Department spoke at the event along with several guests. Southport Unity Committee Member Stephanie Jackson said the annual event began around 15 years ago. She added that the committee was created for events like Juneteenth to bring the community together. 

“Southport is changing so much, because the secret is out, but we still need to stay together and do everything together as one,” Jackson said. 

Jackson added she’s glad to see the event grow each year.