Salisbury Community Turns Out for Juneteenth on the Shore 5K

SALISBURY, Md. – On Juneteenth, local organization HowWeBuild hosted an event that brought together movement, history and community.

The Juneteenth on the Shore 5K, invited runners of all skill levels to come out, get active, and recognize the importance of the holiday. Along the running trail, participants were greeted by vendors and several community and non-profit organizations. While it started off with a heavy downpour, the sun was sure to come out towards the early afternoon.

Despite cloudy weather and wet conditions, each group had a designated team captain, who led the way to cheer on the runners and spread how they can serve the community. Some familiar faces leading local teams included Maryland Delegate Sheree Sample-Hughes and Wicomico NAACP President Monica Brooks.

WMDT was able to speak with participants and organization representatives to learn what made this run so significant to them.

“This says that there is an opportunity that says that, you know, there’s small nonprofits that need their voice and need to be heard,” said Drew Davis, a participant in Friday’s 5K with the Mizzle House Foundation team.

Event organizers echoed this idea when speaking to attendees, reminding the community that this 5K is not just for fun, but also for finding ways to build supportive relationships and learn about those around you.

“Juneteenth, remember, it’s a celebration, freedom, and like all races coming together, that’s what’s so important about Juneteenth and this run,” said local church leader, Reverend Mark Thompson. “It’s not just for Black or white, it’s for everybody coming together. It’s for community.”

To learn more about HowWeBuild, visit their website here.