Toledo celebrates Juneteenth for the first time as a federal holiday
President Biden signed the holiday into law Friday.
TOLEDO, Ohio — Saturday, Toledo celebrated Juneteenth for the first time as a federal holiday, and that included a ceremony at the corner of Dorr and Collingwood, unveiling a plaque acknowledging the Negro Leagues and their impact on our community, providing people of the color the opportunity to play professional baseball.
The ceremony included music, as well as remarks by prominent leaders in our community, including Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz and Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur.
A proclamation from the city was made to Robert Smith, Executive Director of the African American Legacy Project, which preserves the history of Toledo’s Black community. For more than a decade, Smith has dedicated his time to ensuring the youngest of our community know their roots and that important history isn’t forgotten.
The plaque stands at the intersection of Dorr & Collingwood, and includes a brief history of the Negro Leauges and their significance.
Additionally, a parade was held in celebration of Juneteenth, which included performances by a local dance troupe, and a procession of horses. The parade is held annually through the streets of Toledo.
