Some Deaf friends and I went to Denver Juneteenth celebration and it was LIIIITT! So many people and such a great time. We ate, laughed, sweated buckets, danced, got wet, ran, strolled through the many vendors selling everything from shirts to housewares. For awhile now, I've been wanting a traditional African print shirt but have yet to find one that is good quality that I like. I had hoped I would find one here but alas, I left without a shirt. However, I did find a pillow!
The parade was rather long but I learned about some new organizations in Denver/Aurora that would be cool to check out. Quite a few dance troupes were there as well. I enjoyed seeing the fancy cars. There were representatives running for different offices in the Denver metro area riding in them. I didn't recognize their names...
When the Wobble and Cha Cha Slide songs came on, everyone hit the streets even though it was drizzling. I only joined the Wobble one cause it's my favorite. Al tried the Cha Cha slide but didn't know the moves. Damita and I did the Wobble song while the rest watched.
Overall, it was a fun and long day. We got to catch up with each other. Took Al and Stephanie awhile to meet up with us since they took the light rail. With traffic and roads blocked off, I wasn't surprised. I am glad I still live close enough to ride my bike. This time next year though, I'll be taking the light rail as well unless I feel like driving all the way downtown. That's doubtful.
So happy that Juneteenth is finally recognized as a Federal holiday. Obviously, there is much work to do to combat systematic racism and brutality not only by cops, but America in general towards us. Another fun festival experience completed!
