See why this outer East Portland celebration of Juneteenth continues, and what they’re commemorating …
In the shadow of Powell Butte, Powellhurst-Gilbert neighbors – and those from beyond the neighborhood – gather to celebrate Juneteenth.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Although rain and hailstorms swept through the area on June 19 again this year – along SE Ellis Street, near the foot of Powell Butte, folks gathered anyway, that afternoon, to celebrate Juneteenth.
The weather put a bit of a damper on their car wash fundraiser, and the attendance was off from years past. But the spirits of those attending, and their host, remained high and the atmosphere was, indeed, celebratory.
Soon to enjoy “famous” ribs is Juneteenth guest Kristen Caldwell, served by event organizer grillmaster Leroy Barber a.k.a. Black Santa.
“Yes, my friend, today were celebrating Juneteenth here the Powellhurst-Gilbert neighborhood,” welcomed the jovial host, Leroy Barber.
“This is our fifth year in a row presenting Juneteenth,” Barber told East Portland News at the event. “It’s a car wash, and a big barbecue and block party for our neighborhood!
Under the canopy are Deshawn Hardy and Taye Hardy, as well as Richard Dickinson, who is representing the Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association.
“In addition to our DJ providing music we have games – like corn hole – so it’s a really good time,” enthused Barber. “And I cook up a storm, because I love to barbecue!”
Some smacking their lips, all agreed that Chef Barber’s barbecue was superb.
Providing a lively soundtrack for the event is DJ G*Natural.
“Juneteenth is about celebrating freedom, right?” Barber reflected. “I think everybody wants to celebrate freedom. Even in the midst of struggle, what we know from Juneteenth is that people still celebrate.
“We want to do that too. Our world is not perfect, but we can celebrate – that’s what Juneteenth brings us.”
While visiting the celebration, Barber learned that the Juneteenth observance planned at that afternoon’s Portland Pickles Baseball Club – as well as the game itself – had been postponed because of rain and hail. “It’ll happen soon,” Barber said.
Ready to wash cars are volunteers raising money for Grinds & Vines Coffee Shop Wine Bar are Tamra Dickinson, Jessica Barber, and Chrisy “Rayna” Anderson.
He commended The Voices Project for helping to put on the event, and also lauded other sponsors, including:
- Portland Pickles
- Powellhurst-Gilbert Neighborhood Association
- East Portland Neighbors, Inc.
- Prosper Portland
- Cascade Church in Lents
- All Saints Episcopal Church in Woodstock
© 2023 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News™
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