Weather can’t hold back Juneteenth celebration in Lansing

While Lansing’s Juneteenth flag-raising was postponed briefly on Thursday due to weather, the ceremony proceeded in sunshine and with high spirits. 

This was the second year the Juneteenth flag was raised outside Lansing City Hall as part of the weekend-long celebration. 

Lansing Mayor Andy Schor told the crowd that bringing the flag-raising back for a second year shows that “no matter who’s here, who’s part of Lansing, this is going to be a tradition.”

Ingham County Circuit Court Judge Wanda Stokes also addressed the crowd, elaborating on the importance of Juneteenth as an American holiday.

“The significance of Juneteenth extends far beyond its historical roots,” Stokes explained. “It’s a celebration of resilience, hope, and an unwavering pursuit of justice by generations of Black Americans.”

Furthermore, Stokes added, Juneteenth is a reminder that the pursuit of justice is still ongoing.

“Together, we can transform the promise of freedom into lasting change, ensuring that the spirit of Juneteenth lives in our spirits and in our hearts.”