Hardeman County Recognizes Juneteenth at 27th Annual Celebration {videos}
The Hardeman County Commission for Black History (HCCBH) held its 27th Annual Juneteenth Celebration on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Whiteville City Park. The theme was “Breaking Every Chain” and it was a day of community celebration, and honoring family and culture.
As with any June summer day, the weather was hot, but that did not keep people away. The celebration opened with a Juneteenth Parade, which started in Downtown Whiteville. The procession continued down Main Street and finished at Whiteville City Park, which was filled with vendors displaying their wares, food trucks serving up delicious food, and activities set up for children to enjoy.
“Juneteenth is a celebration of freedom for people of color, not just the Afro-American in today’s society. The Hardeman County Commission for Black History has celebrated Juneteenth for the last 27 years to help educate people about the importance of freedom for everyone in this community,” said HCCBH President Bettie Boyd.
The HCCBH was formed in 1980 at Campbell Chapel Missionary Baptist Church in Bolivar by founding members Reverend Dr. James R. Grimes, Mrs. Alfreeda L. McKinney, Mrs. Nannie S. Pratt, Mr. Ned M. Rawls, Mr. Evelyn C. Robertson, Jr., Representative Johnny H. Shaw, Mrs. Opal Shaw, Bishop Jessie E. Williams, and Mr. John A Williams. The organization received its charter from the State of Tennessee in 1981. While the focus of the Commission is on Black History that history includes people of all races. Ms. Boyd has stressed in the past the importance of people, especially young people, knowing their history, which includes everyone!
Jerry Crisp, Pastor/Emeritus of Union Hill Baptist Church read a scripture. Corey Bufford, Lead Pastor of Union Hill Baptist Church prayed. Andre T. Beatty, Lead Pastor of Simon Chapel Missionary Baptist Church did the libation.
Saxophonist Ron Mabon played his instrument and sang his version of “Summertime”.
Juneteenth Chairperson Lesa Jones expressed great thanks and appreciation for the support from several community members, who assisted in putting the event together.
HCCBH 27th Annual Juneteenth Celebration Photo Gallery
Click arrow/swipe screen to see the slideshow.
“This year introduced a new feature—a Juneteenth Parade—which, while short, was well-received. I want to thank committee members Mayor Gene Bowden, Angelous Simmons, and the town of Whiteville for its support. Special thanks to Town of Whiteville Police Chief Ben Davis and the Hardeman County Sheriff’s Department for leading the parade. Special thank you to all the vendors; Melvin McKinnie, sound technician; Ron Mabon, saxophonist/singer; Pastor Beatty of Simon Chapel Missionary Baptist Church; and DJ Kizzle for rendering his musical talent,” said Ms. Jones. “Reflecting on the event’s growth and locations over the years, I want to emphasize the importance of educating more people about the true meaning of Juneteenth.”
Read more local news by clicking here.
Stay informed on what’s happening in Hardeman County by following Hatchie Press on Facebook and Subscribing to Hatchie Press e-mail updates.
Do you have community news you’d like to share? E-mail us at news@hatchiepress.com.
Copyright 2025 Hatchie Press. All rights reserved.
