County Executive Marc Elrich presented the African American Living Legend Awards at the County’s 26th Juneteenth Celebration, “Journey to Freedom,” Friday evening at the BlackRock Center for the Arts in Germantown.
This year’s honorees are Henry Hailstock, Jr., Rev. Theresa M. Henderson, Pauline G. Johnson, Sheila G. Ogilvie, Vernon H. Ricks, Jr., and Lt. Colonel Shelton (Ivan) Ware.
Elrich presented a proclamation in the spirit of Juneteenth to honor the life-long contributions made by the awardees. During his speech, the county executive remembered when he was a school teacher and taught history regarding this commemoration and the events that occurred on June 19, 1865.
The ceremony was lit by MCPS high school students who also performed songs, poetry and played musical instruments.
History lesson by county executive Elrich -and a former teacher- @MontCoExec during the #juneteenth commemoration at @BlackRockCenter @mymcmedia pic.twitter.com/qmsiqiNeNi
— Andrea Sarralde (@asarralde) June 16, 2023
The celebration continues! Outstanding performances by @mcps students at @BlackRockCenter commemorating Juneteenth @mymcmedia #juneteenthmcm pic.twitter.com/dgGL10ice1
— Andrea Sarralde (@asarralde) June 16, 2023
