“To bring all Americans together to celebrate our common bond of freedom through the recognition, education, observance and historical preservation of Juneteenth in America.” Rev. Dr. Ron Myers, Sr. NJOF Founder

The mission of the Juneteenth Planning Commission, Inc. (JPCI) is to educate people of the significance that the African-American race has in the construction and diversity of our great nation, before, during and after the inhumane slavery era and the signing of the “Emancipation Proclamation” signed by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863. Hence, we celebrate “America’s 2nd Independence Day”, Juneteenth, a celebration of Freedom and Unity!

The goal of the JPCI is three fold. First, to join in the efforts of the National Juneteenth Observance Foundation (NJOF), Dr. Ronald Myers, Sr., Founder, to establish June 19th, “Juneteenth”, as a state holiday in every state in the United States.

Secondly, the JPCI will help raise funds and awareness for the Crisis Center for Women’s new facility. The cost estimate is $2.6 million dollars. Lastly, we seek to raise awareness and funds for the much needed and anticipated U.S. Marshal’s museum here in Fort Smith!

The JPCI cultural literacy initiative program, (C.L.I.P.) continues to place culturally diverse books in school systems and public libraries. We serve as partners in education and park partners through community outreach and cultural diversity education and appreciation.

The Juneteenth Planning Commission, Inc. (JPCI) is a non-profit organization. This committee is the Greater Fort Smith chapter of the National Juneteenth Observance Foundation, (NJOF), Founder and Chairman Dr. Ronald Myers.

We are an active body in our community that partners with Fort Smith Parks and Recreation as well as the Fort Smith School Board. Together, we will see Juneteenth, “America’s 2nd Independence Day” become a National Holiday and Martin Luther King, Jr. Park revitalized!

The JPCI works to support, encourage, and perpetuate cultural awareness of our ancestors, community revitalization, health and educational issues, leadership and economic development by means of educational seminars, workshops, school presentations, festivals, cultural events, theatrical performances and community meetings.

We have an Advisory Board, Charter Members, and sub committees, as well as volunteer groups that will allow everyone to an opportunity to work where you feel most useful or needed. Commitment to lead by example is a powerful thing.

We celebrate “Freedom and Unity” and teach of the importance of cultural diversity. For more information, please call André Good at (479) 285-4932 or contact Lawrence “Fluff” Wood at (479) 782-2622.

Please fill out the information section below if you interested in joining the JPCI.

You may also click here to download a printable PDF, fill out the necessary information, and mail your application to:

Juneteenth Planning Commission, Inc.
P.O. Box 8083
Fort Smith, AR. 72902