MARION -- A steady stream of area residents turned out in Marion on Saturday for the Juneteenth celebration following the official establishments of the nation's newest federal holiday.
Juneteenth is the anniversary of the day in 1865 when the last enslaved Americans finally learned they had been free for more than two years.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed House Bill 3922 into law, designating June 19 as Juneteenth National Freedom Day in Illinois.
The Marion event, spearheaded by Sergio Glispie began at Tower Square Plaza with activities that included chalk art before moving to Pyramid Park for prayer, a cookout, music, and games.
