Juneteenth Flag raised over PA

A color guard from the Memorial High School Junior ROTC raised the Juneteenth Flag over Port Arthur for the first time at a ceremony Thursday at the County Subcourthouse.

The ceremony was organized by the African-American Cultural Society as part of a week-long celebration surrounding Juneteenth. County Commissioner Michael “Shane” Sinegal read a proclamation from Commissioner Court on the significance of the 150th anniversary of Juneteenth.
The Juneteenth Flag features a Star of Texas surrounded by a color burst over the red and blue fields of the Texas Flag. It represents Texas bursting with new freedom throughout the land over a new horizon, according to the flag raising ceremony program.
State Rep. Joe Deshotel gave remarks saying Juneteenth means African-Americans who once were slaves now have the responsibility of full citizenship which includes being involved and civic minded.
Members of the Memorial High School color guard included Jennifer Barrera, Marques Armstrong, Daija Joe, Starr Stephenson, and Matkia Hadley.
Juneteenth activities continue Friday with the Marcus Garvey Juneteenth Torchlight Parade beginning at Stilwell and Procter culminating at Barbara Jacket Park at Gilham Circle where a 500-voice choir will “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”