Local communities celebrate Juneteenth to mark day slavery ended

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Several communities across the Charlotte area are celebrating Juneteenth on Saturday.

They are empowering minorities as they mark the day slavery ended.

The Premier Foundation awarded $6,000 in scholarships to local students who are excelling in school.

Sharisse Berry, one of the winners, explained the importance of African-Americans remembering Juneteenth and using it in their lives.

“I feel like we weren't freed for any reason,” Berry said. “We should take that freedom and use it to the best of our ability so that we can advance ourselves in the world.”

Saturday marked the first time the Premier Foundation held a luncheon at the Carolinas College of Health Sciences in Dilworth to honor the winners.

Cox Media Group