A Celebration of Freedom. As community leaders continue the pursuit of monetary reparations, Black Tulsans showed their economic power and influence during the 10th annual Juneteenth festival in the Greenwood District. It’s the third Juneteenth since the 2021 Black Wall Street race massacre anniversary and the declaration of this celebrated day as an annual federal holiday.

Among the first events marking the occasion was a runway show on June 8. It showcased the talents of local Black designers, models, and photographers. It gave the world a glimpse of the opportunities and potential for Tulsa as an influential actor in the fashion industry.

Entrepreneurs who launched businesses last year without brick-and-mortar openings cut a ribbon to celebrate their creations. A panel of entrepreneurs discussed the pros and cons of working for yourself. The entrepreneurial discussion culminated in a judged pitch competition, providing cash awards totaling $22,500 to three business owners and $1,000 cash for the people’s choice awards. Simultaneously, attendees kicked off the weekend with a Greenwood X Archer block party featuring street vendors and an expo.

The performances of local comedians and musicians energized the party. Among them were several performers who returned to Tulsa to celebrate Juneteenth, such as Fire in Little Africa Producer Dr. View. National headliners included Tamar Braxton, H-Town, and Keke Wyatt, with openers from Branjae, Ray June, A.R. Experience, Alexandria Nicole, Vokal, Demarcia, Tammy Hamilton and the Eaton Out Band.

Chase Bank hosted a half-day forum and resource fair to honor Black Wall Street’s legacy and build new prosperity through finance. The Freedom Through Wealth event offered information on investment strategies, home buying, and the ins and outs of residential and commercial lending, as well as fostering a connection with community partners at the resource fair.

The festival’s three nights, from Thursday to Saturday, June 13-15, provided a welcomed respite from the heat of the season, culminating in picnics and meals from various local food trucks. National entertainers followed local musicians on the main stage on the OSU Tulsa lawn, where thousands congregated to celebrate freedom as a community, honor ancestral legacy and keep the healing and unity going.