DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - The African-American Cultural and Genealogical Society Museum of Illinois in Decatur kicked off its 32nd annual Juneteenth Celebration Gala on Friday.
The event took place at the Grand Palace Banquet Hall.
Organizers said it is important for the celebration to take place every year to bring people together and celebrate the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation.
"It was a part of history that affects a certain class of people. And for that, we want to come together in unity, in a union and unity and celebrate what has taken place and the accomplishments that we've come to this day," said AACGS board member Derrick Thaxton.
The AACGS will host a festival from 1-4 p.m. in Central Park in Downtown Decatur on Saturday.
There will be live music, vendors and food. Admission will also be free.
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