Juneteenth In Galveston

Nolen Davis

On this podcast the history of Juneteenth is explained by historians, published authors, genealogist, tour guides and other professionals. All interviews are hosted by Cornelia Harris Banks, the first African American female city council member and a native of Galveston Island.

  1. JUNETEENTH IN GALVESTON, WHERE IT ALL BEGAN. S2 EP # 11 BRANDON LEVIAS mp3

    06/19/2024

    JUNETEENTH IN GALVESTON, WHERE IT ALL BEGAN. S2 EP # 11 BRANDON LEVIAS mp3

    In this engaging episode of "Juneteenth in Galveston, Where it All Began," host Cornelia Harris Banks introduces Brandon Levias, an active community member and event planner. Brandon shares his journey from growing up in Orange, Texas to his significant involvement in organizing Juneteenth festivities in Galveston through his business, Luminosity Event Services, and other community efforts. He goes into detail about his role in orchestrating various activities, from Family Fun Days to the Emancipation March, highlighting the historical and cultural importance of these events. Furthermore, Brandon speaks about his lineage, including notable relatives such as the famous boxer Jack Johnson, and emphasizes the deep historical connections of his family to the region. This episode also covers the involvement of prominent figures like Attorney Benjamin Crump and the collective efforts of the Galveston United Juneteenth Alliance. The episode concludes with an emotional reflection on the significance of Juneteenth to not only the local community but also to the broader narrative of American history and civil rights.

    28 min
  2. JUNETEENTH IN GALVESTON, WHERE IT ALL BEGAN. S2 EP # 10 RONALD DEAN

    06/18/2024

    JUNETEENTH IN GALVESTON, WHERE IT ALL BEGAN. S2 EP # 10 RONALD DEAN

    This episode of "Juneteenth in Galveston, Where It All Began" features an in-depth conversation with Ronald Dean, the Vice President of the Galveston Island African American Treasures. Ronald shares his personal journey, including his upbringing in Galveston, his education, his service in the Marine Corps during Vietnam, and his return to Galveston. He speaks about the creation of their group, which aims to document and preserve the African American heritage in Galveston and Texas. The episode also explores the group's origins, their early experiences at the Holy Rosary Catholic School, and their future projects, including compiling a photographic portfolio of the school's attendees and other historical information. Ronald emphasizes the rich history of Galveston and its significance, inviting listeners to explore and contribute to the preservation efforts.

    21 min
  3. JUNETEENTH IN GALVESTON, WHERE IT ALL BEGAN. S2 EP #9 DAVID MITCHELL

    06/14/2024

    JUNETEENTH IN GALVESTON, WHERE IT ALL BEGAN. S2 EP #9 DAVID MITCHELL

    The episode "JUNETEENTH IN GALVESTON, WHERE IT ALL BEGAN. S2 EP #9 DAVID MITCHELL" features an interview with David Mitchell, a native of Galveston, Texas, also known as "B O I" or "Born on the Island." David discusses his role with the PARD (Galveston Park Board), specifically focusing on the African American Beach Lifeguard Steering Committee. He highlights the historical and cultural significance of African American lifeguards in Galveston during the 20th century and their contributions during segregation. The conversation also includes the efforts to fundraise for a statue to be placed at 28th and Seawall, celebrating these lifeguards' legacy. Additionally, the episode covers the broad responsibilities of the Galveston Island Beach Patrol, the importance of water safety, educational outreach, and the role of volunteer programs like Wave Watchers in ensuring beach safety. The interview emphasizes the need for community awareness and celebrates Galveston's diverse history and ongoing efforts to honor its past while ensuring the safety and enjoyment of its beaches for all visitors.

    25 min
  4. JUNETEENTH IN GALVESTON, WHERE IT ALL BEGAN. S2 EP # 6 JAMES CLARK

    06/14/2024

    JUNETEENTH IN GALVESTON, WHERE IT ALL BEGAN. S2 EP # 6 JAMES CLARK

    In this episode, the host interviews James Clark, the chairperson of the Galveston chapter of the Texas Restaurant Association. They discuss the role of local restaurants and community organizations in celebrating Juneteenth, especially in Galveston Island, Texas, where the holiday originated. James talks about his collaboration with Alex Thomas from Visit Galveston to increase awareness and celebrations for Juneteenth on the island. He emphasizes the importance of local businesses, particularly small family-run restaurants, in contributing to the festivities. The episode also highlights Galveston's diverse culinary offerings and its suitability as a destination for family reunions and cultural experiences. The conversation encourages listeners to visit Galveston and partake in its rich traditions and vibrant food scene, celebrating Juneteenth not just on the day itself, but throughout the year.

    9 min
  5. JUNETEENTH IN GALVESTON, WHERE IT ALL BEGAN. S2 EP # 8 DANNY ALLEN mp3

    06/14/2024

    JUNETEENTH IN GALVESTON, WHERE IT ALL BEGAN. S2 EP # 8 DANNY ALLEN mp3

    In this episode, the host introduces Danny Allen, a notable Galveston citizen and former city council member. Danny discusses his experiences growing up in Galveston and the prominent role Juneteenth has played in the community. He shares details about his father's contributions as an entrepreneur and philanthropist, highlighting the significance of various African American-owned businesses in Galveston's history. Danny emphasizes the importance of preserving and celebrating Juneteenth, which marks the end of slavery, and reflects on the changes and challenges faced by the African American community over the years. Furthermore, he underscores the need for continued community involvement and education about African American history to ensure that future generations understand and appreciate this pivotal part of American history. The conversation also touches on the economic impacts of segregation and integration, the loss of black-owned businesses, and the resilience of Galveston's residents.

    32 min
  6. JUNETEENTH IN GALVESTON, WHERE IT ALL BEGAN. S2 EP # 7 CAITLIN CARNES

    06/14/2024

    JUNETEENTH IN GALVESTON, WHERE IT ALL BEGAN. S2 EP # 7 CAITLIN CARNES

    In this episode, we explore the rich history and exciting festivities of Juneteenth in Galveston, Texas. Our special guest, Caitlin Carnes from the Galveston Park Board, provides an extensive overview of the various events and activities happening in Galveston, both for Juneteenth and beyond. Caitlin discusses the historical significance of Galveston as the birthplace of Juneteenth and highlights numerous local festivals, such as Mardi Gras, Dickens on the Strand, and various food and wine events. She also details the role of the Galveston Park Board in promoting tourism and maintaining the island’s natural assets, including their efforts in beach nourishment and cleanup. Listeners will gain insights into the Park Board's funding mechanisms and their initiatives to enhance local culture and heritage tourism. Caitlin elaborates on specific Juneteenth events, including the Emancipation Celebration Gospel Concert at the Grand Opera House, the Juneteenth Gala, the Comedy Fest, and the Freedom Walks. She emphasizes the importance of these celebrations in honoring the struggle for equality and keeping the history of Juneteenth alive. By the end of the episode, Caitlin and the host encourage listeners to visit Galveston and experience its vibrant history and celebrations firsthand, especially during the Juneteenth festivities.

    24 min
  7. JUNETEENTH IN GALVESTON, WHERE IT ALL BEGAN. S2 EP # 5 SANDRA WOODARD

    06/14/2024

    JUNETEENTH IN GALVESTON, WHERE IT ALL BEGAN. S2 EP # 5 SANDRA WOODARD

    In this episode of our podcast series on Juneteenth, we speak with Sandra Woodard from Galveston, Texas. Sandra shares insights about her background, including her education and long-standing involvement in community activities and organizations like Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. The main focus is on the Juneteenth Sneaker Ball, an annual celebration organized by local fraternities andsororities. Sandra discusses the significance of the event, designed to honor the spirit of Juneteenth with a relaxed, celebratory atmosphere that welcomes people from all over. The episode also touches on the historical and cultural significance of Galveston, highlighting its unique history and the importance of preserving it. Sandra invites listeners to participate and support the event, which doubles as a fundraiser for scholarships and cultural initiatives in the community.

    27 min
  8. JUNETEENTH IN GALVESTON, WHERE IT ALL BEGAN. S2 EP # 4 SHARON LEWIS

    06/14/2024

    JUNETEENTH IN GALVESTON, WHERE IT ALL BEGAN. S2 EP # 4 SHARON LEWIS

    In this episode, the host welcomes Councilwoman Sharon Lewis of Galveston’s District 1 to discuss the rich history and vibrant celebrations of Juneteenth in Galveston, Texas. Councilwoman Lewis shares insights about her background in education, her role in city council, and her efforts toward making Juneteenth a prominent and nationally recognized event. The episode highlights various Juneteenth activities and events in Galveston, including the scholarship gala, the Juneteenth Banquet, the historical reenactments, and the development of the Galveston United Juneteenth Alliance (GUJA) website. Councilwoman Lewis also discusses the development of a Juneteenth museum and the increased tourism and economic impact brought by these festivities. Listeners learn about other engaging activities in Galveston such as home tours, the Pleasure Pier, Moody Gardens, and fishing excursions, making the island a year-round tourist destination. The episode wraps up with an invitation for everyone to visit Galveston and experience Juneteenth celebrations first-hand, where it all began.

    24 min
See All (17)

Ratings & Reviews

4.7
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

On this podcast the history of Juneteenth is explained by historians, published authors, genealogist, tour guides and other professionals. All interviews are hosted by Cornelia Harris Banks, the first African American female city council member and a native of Galveston Island.

Information

  • Creator
    Nolen Davis
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2024
  • Episodes
    17
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Cornelia Harris Banks
  • Show Website
    Juneteenth In Galveston

You Might Also Like