Residents in Black community of Scotland trace roots back to the days of slavery
By D. Kevin McNeir
Special to the AFRO
Scotland, a small yet significant historic Black community in Potomac, Md., is poised to make an impact in Montgomery County, Md., and the DMV area with a Juneteenth celebration, which organizers promise will be bigger, brighter and louder than ever before.
According to LaTisha Gasaway-Paul, chairperson for the second Annual Scotland Juneteenth Heritage Festival, this year will mark the first time fireworks will be part of the many exciting activities, while proceeds from the festival will once again be donated to selected nonprofit organizations based in the Scotland community.
The Festival, scheduled for June 15-19 at various locations throughout Montgomery County, will feature 20 unique events with notable participants, including Keandre Jones from the Washington Commanders, Poet from WPGC 95.5, The Chuck Brown Band, Daryl Davis and more.
The fireworks will honor and celebrate Emancipation Day, acknowledge the rich heritage of Black communities and as the Festival chairman added, serve as “a beacon of hope and recognition for the struggles and triumphs of our ancestors.”
“This year, we are proud to host one of the largest Juneteenth festivals in the region, bringing together diverse communities to celebrate freedom and heritage,” Gasaway-Paul said. “Our expanded lineup of events and activities reflects our commitment to honoring the past while shaping a vibrant future for all residents.
“Our emphasis this year is on unity and the reclamation of Black legacy. Hosting the Festival on land historically connected to freed slaves is deeply meaningful, as it underscores our mission to ensure the legacy of the Black community remains strong. We aim to unite people through this celebration, reminding everyone of the resilience and contributions of Black Americans and reinforcing the importance of preserving and honoring our shared history,” she said.
The history behind those who once lived in Scotland is particularly significant to Gasaway-Paul and other members of her family who represent the progeny of former slaves who stood their ground more than a century ago and refused to relinquish their homes to their former owners.
“The grounds of this Festival used to belong to my ancestors – Black kings and queens who fought through oppression to acquire land, a powerful way to build generational wealth. Though that land was lost, I am here to ensure our legacy stands strong. Celebrating Juneteenth on land that once belonged to freed slaves is truly a way to reclaim our Black legacy.”
For more information, contact Delianny Brammer, delianny@dapragency.com.