State Commission on African American Affairs backs Malone Center, Juneteenth festival

The Nebraska Commission on African American Affairs heard presentations on key community initiatives on April 22, according to the Flatwater Free Press.

The commission received a presentation from Malone Center CEO John Goodwin and Executive Director Shannon Martin-Roebuck on the organization's "Breaking the Cycle Initiative," which focuses on eliminating multigenerational poverty through youth development, education, maternal wellness, mental health support and housing assistance. Presenters described a range of programs including STEM-focused after-school activities, entrepreneurship training, addiction recovery support, maternal and paternal wellness services, literacy initiatives and community health outreach.

Goodwin said the Malone Center is nearing completion of a $23.1 million capital campaign and anticipates a ribbon cutting May 6 for its new facility. Since 1955, the Malone Center's vision has been to create unity and prosperity throughout Lincoln while honoring African American heritage, with a mission to end multigenerational poverty in Lincoln.

Commissioners also heard details on community events including back-to-school supply distributions, holiday outreach efforts and initiatives aimed at improving relationships between youth and law enforcement.

The commission later received a presentation from Freedomtainment Inc. founder Calvin Williams regarding upcoming Juneteenth events in Omaha, including expanded programming downtown and at Miller Park, a free concert and youth-focused community engagement efforts. For the sixth consecutive year, Freedomtainment is hosting The Omaha Freedom Festival, an all-day, family-friendly celebration of Juneteenth at Miller Park in the heart of North Omaha.

Commissioners approved a resolution supporting Freedomtainment's Juneteenth celebration after discussion centered on confusion surrounding the sponsorship process and the amount of proposed funding, ultimately approving a $5,000 sponsorship.

Executive Director Mogien Boyd outlined strategic planning efforts, including a proposed multiyear partnership with the Malone Center and outreach efforts aimed at building connections with African and African American organizations in Minnesota.