UTICA — The second annual pre-Juneteenth kickoff is planned for 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, June 11, at Kemble Park, at the corner of James and Kemble streets.

Hosted by local organizations Motivated Minds and Hoops & Dreams, the event will feature music, basketball, vendors, food and speakers, and will recognize a community leader with the Robbie Dancy award.

This event is to bring awareness to Juneteenth, an annual holiday (June 19) to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States, and to celebrate youth through their talents, and basketball skills. The event also will showcase a variety of local businesses as well as bring awareness to the gun violence in our area through various speakers.