Brittany Kelley
In honor of Juneteenth, the Kyle Area Senior Zone hosted its annual flag raising ceremony and celebration Friday, June 19. The event featured Hays County commissioner Michelle Cohen as host, a performance by the AMVets Ladies Auxiliary 115 and Kyle VFW Post #12058 and speeches from Women of Unity founder Sherry P. Hamilton and former Buda and Kyle city council member Ray Bryant, pictured above. Bryant spoke of the meaning behind the symbols in the flag: white star for Texas and the contributions of African Americans to the country; a burst that represents new beginning and the courage required to change; a slight curve that reflects a horizon and new opportunities that lay ahead; red for resilience and strength; white for hope and the promise of freedom; and blue for perseverance. Additionally, the red, white and blue coloring is intentional in representing justice and liberty for all, he said.
Community members were invited to a luncheon and educational opportunities inside the Krug Activity Center afterwards. Boards depicting Juneteenth traditions and information were placed throughout the facility for residents to read. Additionally, free books were offered to attendees.
