Willard Library, 7 W. Van Buren St., Battle Creek, will host a Juneteenth celebration on Thursday, June 19, at 5 p.m. in the programming room.
According to a community announcement, local author J.R. Reynolds will present “Profiles in Perseverance: The Freedom Seekers and Freedom Fighters Who Helped Build Battle Creek.” The event will focus on stories of resilience within Battle Creek’s Black community.
Reynolds will highlight notable figures, including doctors Carl and Donna Powell, Viola Johnson, and classical performing artist Mattie Robbins Willis. Audience members will have the opportunity to share their own reflections and memories of those featured.
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On Friday, June 20, at noon, the library will hold a workshop discussing the book “The Anatomy of Peace: Resolving the Heart of Conflict.” Participants will explore how true liberation is reflected in communities and relationships. The workshop will focus on the book’s core message, emphasizing the importance of viewing others as people rather than obstacles.
The celebration continues on Saturday, June 21, with the Juneteenth Family Day Celebration at Claude Evans Park, 320 N. Washington Ave., Battle Creek, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Attendees can visit Willard Library’s booth for information about the Summer Reading program and upcoming library events.
Willard Library programs are free and open to the public. For more information, go to WillardLibrary.org or call 269-968-8166 ext. 513.
This story was created by Janis Reeser, jreeser@gannett.com, with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at https://cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct/.
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This article originally appeared on Battle Creek Enquirer: Juneteenth at Willard Library: Stories, workshops, and family fun