This past Saturday, Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger joined members of the Jackie Robinson family, community leaders, and Sun Village residents at Jackie Robinson Park in Sun Village to honor and celebrate Juneteenth.
Sun Village is home to one of the oldest running community Juneteenth celebrations in the County. The community holds deep historical significance as one of the first communities in Los Angeles County where African American families could own property and build generational wealth.
“Without a doubt, one of the best places to be when celebrating America’s newest national holiday is Sun Village,” said Supervisor Kathryn Barger. “For over fifty years, Sun Village commemorated the day and to make sure the public at large knows what it stands for and why it’s an important day to celebrate. It’s an honor to be here today.”
More than 50 years before Juneteenth became a federal holiday, Sun Village residents were already gathering to celebrate freedom and educate others about its meaning—making this celebration not just a local event but a cornerstone of Black history in Southern California.
Hosted by the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation and Friends of Jackie Robinson Park, this year’s Juneteenth festival featured live music, family activities, and community tributes.
Highlights included a keynote from retired U.S. Navy Fleet Master Chief Petty Officer April D. Beldo. An Antelope Valley native, Beldo was the first woman and the first African-American in multiple Navy positions, including the first African-American woman to be Command Master Chief of an aircraft carrier and the first woman to be the Manpower, Personnel, Training Education fleet master chief.
Supervisor Barger honored Beldo for her 34-year military career and community service and presented the Juneteenth Bright Star Award to Lillian Jackson-James for her community engagement, character, and leadership.
Supervisor Barger also recognized the celebration’s eight Grand Marshals for their contributions to the local community: Deputy R. Johnny Oats, Barbara Smith, Virginia Jo Miller, James Brooks, Gail Brooks, Pastor Emmanuel Oggs, Bonnie Isom, and Dr. Vanessa Thomas.