Contributed by Bourn Avenue–Southside Coalition
ROCKWALL, TX (June 14, 2025) – Under clear skies and a strong sense of unity, the Southside community of Rockwall came together Saturday, June 21, to celebrate Juneteenth at Gloria Williams Park. The park was alive with music, reflection, laughter, and fellowship during a day-long celebration that honored both heritage and hope.
Organized by the Bourn Avenue–Southside Coalition, the event drew current and former residents to commemorate the anniversary of emancipation. As a foundational neighborhood in the city of Rockwall, the Southside area has long been a pillar of local history and culture, and this year’s celebration proudly lifted up that legacy.
The program began with a formal ceremony. Mayor Tim McCallum offered opening remarks, commending the community’s ongoing efforts to preserve its history while also recognizing the impact of Mr. Sam Buffington, a past Rockwall city councilman who passed in 2013. The crowd gathered in prayer led by Deacon Marvin Brannon of New Caledonia Baptist Church, followed by heartfelt renditions of the National Anthem and Lift Every Voice and Sing.
Youth from the community delivered moving historical reflections. Vincent Harris Jr highlighted the history of Juneteenth, and Zachary Mitchell noted the contributions of prominent community leader and educator Dorris A. Jones, the namesake of Dorris A. Jones Elementary School in Rockwall.
Former City Councilman Clarence Jorif and community leader Dr. Catherine Casteel also shared remarks about civic engagement and the enduring march toward unity and progress.
The emotional high point of the program came as Lorenza Crenshaw and Shirley Williams—both lifelong Rockwall residents and revered matriarchs of the Southside—took the stage to share heartfelt memories of past Juneteenth celebrations and the neighborhood’s rich history. Their reflections served as a living bridge between generations, reminding many of where they’ve come from and where they’re going.
Courtney Dabney delivered a resonant reading of the Emancipation Proclamation, a tradition that brought solemn reverence to the occasion. Many attendees wore special t-shirts featuring the image of Ruby Jewel Dabney, a beloved Southside mother and community figure who passed away in 2020. Her presence was deeply felt throughout the day.
After the formal program, the celebration continued with food, music, and activities for all ages. The park’s pool remained open with free admission, offering a way for families to cool off and enjoy the summer day. Volunteers served a menu of fried fish, potato salad, fries, hamburgers, and hot dogs, along with a wide variety of cold drinks to keep the crowd refreshed.
The Bourne Avenue–Southside Coalition, composed of local residents with deep ties to the neighborhood, organized the event with a clear vision: to honor the past while building toward the future. The group has expressed plans to expand the celebration in coming years, incorporating more educational components, partnerships, and citywide involvement.
As the sun began to set over Gloria Williams Park, it was evident that Juneteenth in Rockwall was more than a single day of festivity—it was a living expression of community, culture, and continuity.
“This is who we are,” one elder said simply, smiling as music played behind her. “And this is how we remember.”
Contributed by Bourn Avenue–Southside Coalition. Submitted by Vincent Harris for publication in Blue Ribbon News.
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