Community in Motion: Juneteenth in Da Rock

Coming Home Through Creativity

Going back to Little Rock for Juneteenth felt liberating.

There was something deeply meaningful about choosing to celebrate it on my own terms; Returning home to spend the weekend with my creative family felt like its own act of freedom—a reminder that liberation isn't only something we commemorate; it's also something we intentionally practice.

This year's Juneteenth in Da Rock, hosted by the Mosaic Templars Cultural Center, brought together music, food, local businesses, artists, families, and community organizations to celebrate Black history, culture, and creativity. The celebration honors June 19, 1865—the day federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce the freedom of the last enslaved African Americans, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.

For me, the celebration began early.

I traveled to Little Rock to participate as a model in the 9:00 a.m. fashion show, wearing designs by internationally acclaimed fashion designer Korto Momolu, with styling by Bruce Brown. Years ago, I had the privilege of interning with Korto, so returning to work alongside her again felt both familiar and full circle

One of my favorite parts of the weekend was reconnecting with familiar faces while meeting new people who continue to strengthen Arkansas's creative community. There is something special about coming home and immediately feeling like you belong.

And, of course...

There was the fashion.

I always love wearing Korto's designs. Every time she dresses me, I feel elegant, sophisticated, and completely myself. Her work has a way of balancing timeless sophistication with playful creativity, allowing each person wearing her designs to shine without losing their individuality.

Bruce Brown then takes each look to another level through carefully chosen accessories. His styling completes the story, transforming beautiful garments into a complete artistic statement. Watching fashion come together through collaboration reminds me that great art is rarely created alone.

Every time I attend one of Korto's events, I somehow leave as both a model and a customer. Her pieces are truly one of a kind, and supporting artists whose work I genuinely admire is something I will happily continue to do.

As the day continued, the celebration expanded beyond the runway. Families explored vendor booths, enjoyed live entertainment, connected with local organizations, and celebrated the richness of Black culture together. What makes Juneteenth special isn't just remembering history—it's seeing that history continue to live through art, entrepreneurship, education, music, fashion, and community.

Standing on the runway reminded me that movement doesn't only exist inside a dance studio. Walking a runway requires presence, intention, confidence, and storytelling. Every step communicates something before a single word is spoken.

As someone who spends much of the year exploring movement through dance, teaching, and community engagement, I found it beautiful to experience movement through fashion once again.

Leaving Little Rock, I carried home more than photographs and beautiful clothing.

I left reminded that creativity has always been one of the ways our communities preserve history, celebrate identity, and imagine new possibilities. Coming home for Juneteenth wasn't simply about attending an event—it was about reconnecting with a creative family that continues to inspire me.

Sometimes freedom looks like returning to the people and places that remind you who you are.

Join the Conversation

Have you ever attended a Juneteenth celebration that left a lasting impression?

I'd love to hear how your community celebrates culture, creativity, and history. Share your experience in the comments or connect with me through my website.

Until next time,

Alex Maya