06/20/2026
Today, the MACC community came together to honor the history, significance, and enduring legacy of Juneteenth through music, storytelling, and reflection during a special celebration presented by MACC's Committee for Belonging and Opportunity (CBO), held at MACC-Columbia and shared live with attendees at MACC-Moberly.
The program offered a meaningful journey through the struggles, vision, resilience, and victories that continue to shape our nation today. We were honored by inspiring performances from the Historic Second Baptist Church of Columbia Gospel Choir, whose renditions of "Oh Freedom," "Ride On King Jesus," and "I Have a Dream" filled the room with hope and remembrance. MACC student Brija'na Barnes delivered a heartfelt performance of "Lean On Me"—made even more memorable when the Gospel Choir spontaneously joined her in song.
Professor and storyteller extraordinaire Kristine Zauke brought history to life through her presentation on the significance of Juneteenth, and CBO members concluded the observance with readings of the Emancipation Proclamation and General Order No. 3, the historic order that finally informed enslaved people in Texas of their freedom in 1865.
Thank you to everyone who attended, performed, and participated in this moving observance. Together, we remember the past, celebrate progress, and reaffirm our commitment to building communities where everyone belongs.
