Local organizers are bringing the July 4th Freedom Fest back to Lawrence for a second year to highlight past progress toward ensuring civil rights in America, as well as the work that lies ahead.
This year’s Freedom Fest will run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, July 4 on the east side of South Park, near 11th and Massachusetts streets. The PerSisters, a women’s choir that sings protest songs, will perform at 10:45 a.m.
“Our grassroots coalition is proud again to celebrate our Constitution and especially this year the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence,” said Robin Gingerich, lead coordinator of the fest, in a news release. “This family-friendly event honors the progress our country has made toward its founding ideals, while reminding us that building a more perfect union is a shared and ongoing journey.”
Amii Castle, a University of Kansas law professor, will emcee a program about America’s progress on civil rights, women’s rights and voting rights, plus what work is still on the horizon.
Castle will also discuss proposed amendments to change the Kansas Constitution, which voters will find on their Aug. 4 and Nov. 3 ballots.
Attendees can expect performances from Mike Yoder and Terry Moore, Ardys Ramberg, Linda Sue Clark and Byron James. Natalie Weiss will read a poem from Amanda Gorman, “The Hill We Climb,” with ASL/English interpretation.
There will also be an information fair and food trucks, including J.B.’s Tacos and Main St. Scoops and Sweets. Kids can enjoy activities such as face painting, balloons, an art table, sidewalk chalk, cornhole and more.
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