The Fayette Juneteenth Celebration Committee announced the winners of the 2025 Juneteenth Youth Poster Contest, honoring the creativity, insight, and passion of local youths who captured the spirit and significance of Juneteenth through art.

This year’s theme, “Building Bridges to Freedom: Soaring With Hope and Strength,” inspired students from across Howard County to reflect on the historical and modern-day meaning of Juneteenth. Their submissions explored powerful themes such as liberation, unity, justice, and cultural pride.

Contest Winners:

K–4th Grade

Judges Choice - Leland Stroupe & Cash Hart

People’s Choice - Glenn Ganaway III

5th–8th Grade

Judges Choice - Jezabelle Estrada & Aubree Bush-Jones

People’s Choice - Aubree Bush-Jones

9th–12th Grade

Judges Choice - Willa Patrick

People’s Choice - Willa Patrick

Each winner received a cash prize, and all participants were given a Juneteenth backpack filled with a water bottle and educational items. All participants were applauded for their efforts and contributions to the community’s continued dialogue on history, justice, and celebration.

The entries were evaluated by a panel of three impartial community leaders. Judges praised the originality, symbolism, and emotional power found in each submission. “These young artists reminded us that freedom is not only about the past—it’s also about the future we are building together,” said one of the contest judges. “Their artwork speaks to the heart of what Juneteenth means.”

“The Youth Poster Contest is one of several initiatives designed to engage young people in the cultural and civic importance of Juneteenth,” said Rev. Lue Lockridge-Lane, one of the contest organizers. “Fostering youth participation is key to preserving the legacy of emancipation and empowering the next generation of leaders and changemakers.”

The Fayette Juneteenth Celebration Committee extends heartfelt congratulations to all of this year’s winners and participants. Your voices matter, and your art helps keep the story of freedom alive.

Special thanks to the staff of the Howard County Public Library for serving as the depository and display site for the youth posters. Their support has helped ensure that the wider community has an opportunity to engage with and appreciate the powerful messages expressed by our youth.