Wylie’s seventh annual Juneteenth Festival brought residents together Saturday, June 13, at Olde City Park for a day of music, fellowship, cultural performances and recognition of community members whose contributions have helped shape both the celebration and the city.

The event featured live entertainment from K Cooks and Jay Carlos, food vendors, family activities, line dancing and a variety of cultural presentations commemorating Juneteenth, the holiday marking the end of slavery in the United States.

Throughout the day, organizers emphasized the importance of preserving history, celebrating culture and honoring individuals whose service has strengthened the Wylie community.

Among those recognized were the Roger and Jerri Smith family, recipient of the Jacoby Stewart Award. During the presentation, the family was honored for “their pioneering spirit, dedicated service and enduring contributions to Wylie.” Organizers noted the Smiths were among the first Black families to settle in the city.

Rodney Lewis received the Mr. Wylie Community Impact Award for his leadership, dedication and commitment to the city. Presenters highlighted his efforts organizing community events, mentoring others and encouraging civic engagement.

Lewis reflected on the growth of Wylie’s Juneteenth celebration, noting that it began as a small gathering seven years ago and has evolved into a major community event.

“It’s a blessing to see so many people here … celebrating something that started back over in the corner, on the grill, seven years ago,” Lewis said.

Lewis also announced that while he is stepping away from a leadership role with the Juneteenth organization, he plans to focus on voter registration and civic engagement efforts throughout the community.

Receiving the Opal Lee Community Legacy Award were Damian Johnson, president, and Tonya Johnson, treasurer, of the Wylie Juneteenth organization, for their servant leadership, commitment and dedication to the event. During a surprise presentation, organizers thanked them for helping sustain and grow the celebration while mentoring others to continue its mission in the years ahead.

A new Community Champion Award was introduced this year and presented to Debbie Buccino, the city of Wylie’s emergency management coordinator. Organizers cited Buccino’s behind-the-scenes support of community organizations and events, describing her as a servant leader whose efforts have helped make numerous community gatherings possible, including the annual Juneteenth festival.

The festival’s schedule also included an opening prayer, musical performances, praise dance presentations, spoken-word performances, recognition of Juneteenth pageant participants and appearances by community dance groups and storytellers.

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