Photo: MDoculus / iStock Editorial / Getty Images
The City of Kingston is celebrating the upcoming Juneteenth holiday by displaying special flags along Broadway. These flags feature a bursting white star on a red and blue background, symbolizing a new horizon of opportunity for Black people. The initiative is part of Kingston's efforts to acknowledge and celebrate African American history and culture.
Kitt Potter, the City of Kingston Director of Arts and Cultural Affairs, highlighted the historical significance of Ulster County, noting that it was once among the most brutal slave counties in the country. The flags serve as a reminder of the past and a symbol of hope for the future. According to city officials, the flags are a visual representation of Kingston's commitment to cultural acknowledgment and community development.
The Juneteenth celebrations in Kingston are part of a broader recognition of African American contributions to the region. Ulster County has a rich history of African American influence, from abolitionist Sojourner Truth to contemporary artists and musicians. The county continues to honor this legacy through various initiatives, including the Ulster County Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which aims to provide an honest understanding of the legacy of slavery in the area. The commission is set to launch a website and a narrative walking tour later this year, offering insights into the lives of individuals of African descent in Ulster County.
As reported by Ulster County Tourism, the region's cultural landscape owes much to African American history, and events like the Juneteenth flag display are part of ongoing efforts to celebrate and honor this heritage. The flags will remain on display throughout the Juneteenth holiday, inviting residents and visitors to reflect on the past and look forward to a more inclusive future.