SVdP's Juneteenth celebration brings learning and joy

In the crowded Hall of Banners filled with more than 350 people, St. Vincent de Paul celebrated Juneteenth for the third year in a row with community, insightful speakers, and delicious food. With the support of Xavier Walker, a long-time SVdP volunteer and founder of X Marks the Spot Consulting, and sponsorship from the Black Philanthropy Initiative and the Arizona Community Foundation, our dining room was converted into a space full of celebration and meaningful conversations.

Xavier hosted the event and had an enlightening Q&A with Dr. Matthew C. Whitaker, the executive director of the George Washington Carver Museum & Cultural Center. We also heard from empowering guest speakers such as Jerry J. McPherson, executive director at the Arizona Governor’s Office of African American Affairs, and Pastor Terry E. Mackey.

"This event has grown and grown and grown," Xavier said. "It means so much to the community... SVdP provides a safe place for people to come and learn about a holiday that means so much to the community... This event is a melting pot of people who know and love Juneteenth and know nothing about SVdP to come and learn about a great organization. And it's a great opportunity for people who know and love SVdP to come and learn about Juneteenth and a celebration that is so important."