URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — The Well Experience, a social work nonprofit, hosted its annual Juneteenth parade on Thursday in Urbana.

The event included signs created by children from the organization’s summer program, along with music, food, and line dancing. In the week leading up to the event, the organization educated the summer camp participants about the history of the newest federal holiday, which commemorates the day enslaved individuals in Galveston, Texas, were informed of their freedom.

The founder and executive director of The Well Experience, Dr. Stephanie Cockrell, said teaching young kids African American history is essential.

“Black history is American history,” Cockrell said. “We teach this all the time. Too much of our history has been left out of books.” 

The organization blends enjoyable activities, such as arts and crafts, with educational opportunities to help campers, their families, and the Urbana community celebrate Juneteenth and appreciate its significance.

“Our people were declared free,” Cockrell stated. “We want to ensure that every year we dedicate time to celebrating this day with our families and communities.”