A Celebration of Freedom

In addition to veteran support, the 2023 Juneteenth GVL Festival will host a job fair, an opportunity for people outside of their community to be educated on the impact of Juneteenth and why all should celebrate the holiday. “We hope to expand the festival,” Rueben said. “Not just to the upstate, but the entire state of South Carolina. I can see us hosting a Juneteenth State Fair,” Rueben explained.

Rueben and Vandavid’s vision for the future of the foundation and the festival is, in their words, lofty, but Rueben knew he couldn’t do it alone from the start. “When the idea of the Juneteenth Foundation was conceived, I prayed to God for wisdom. I knew I couldn’t do it on my own. So when he sent me to Vandavid, Peter, and another friend, I told them my vision. Then I told them I would only do it if they went with me. It’s been full steam ahead ever since,” Rueben shared.

Based on the success of their first year and how year two is shaping up, it’s clear that Rueben’s prayers were answered. With prudent planning, good connections, and a determined attitude, the Juneteenth GVL will establish a cultural icon in the community of Greensville and the upstate area that will exist for years to come. It will become the model that other state festivals immolate.