OCEANSIDE, Calif. — Juneteenth is this Wednesday but some parts of San Diego County have started celebrating early. North County's NAACP held a celebration in downtown Oceanside. Different vendors and food options lined the streets while dancing, singing and spoken word was performed.
Alycia Rankin is the president of the North San Diego County NAACP Youth Council and was one of the performers at Saturday's event. She dedicated her poem to her ancestors.
"With every step I honor their sacrifice, with every breath I embrace their advice, I carry their hopes their dreams their prize, in my heart their spirit never dies," said Rankin.
She told CBS 8, Juneteenth is a time to recognize those who came before her and paved the way for generations to come.
"We're remembering our past, and how we got here, and our purpose. Those who got me to where I am now. A black activist, a leader in my community," said Rankin.
While many people were celebrating, Dr. Satia Austin said this longstanding event is also a way to get the community resources they need.
"This once has substantial meaning, we've been here from down to the beach to up here and we are putting equity in our community where we don't always have it," said Austin.
The Blood Bank was stationed at one of the festivals, and True Care Community Clinic was stationed at the other, giving free health screenings. Austin said their presence at events like this help remind people they have someone in their corner.
"We want to let you know, hey, we got you, lets work this together," said Austin.
Austin hopes that community events the one held for Juneteenth brings together the community and sets up equity for the next generation.
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