#ManifestDestiny
We empower young women of color through education and mentorship, rooted in the rich history and enduring spirit of Juneteenth. We cultivate self-identity, confidence, and cultural awareness, celebrating Black excellence and community impact. Our program is a beacon of inspiration, guiding participants towards personal growth, historical knowledge, and community leadership, honoring the past while shaping the future.
Our events showcase the heart of our mission, from the scholarship-focused Code B.L.U.E. Bruncheon, to the Annual Charity Freedom Ball, a celebration of cultural heritage and community unity. The highlight is the State Pageant, a platform for young women to embody confidence and leadership, complemented by the 1865 Juneteenth Golf Tournament, blending sportsmanship with historical awareness. Each event not only honors our rich history but also actively shapes the future of our participants and community through engagement, education, and empowerment.
The Statewide Miss Juneteenth Legacy Pageant stands as a cornerstone event in Virginia, intertwining the story of emancipation and the enduring significance of Juneteenth with the aspirations of today's young urban women. This pageant is more than a competition; it's a cultural celebration and a re-affirmation of a powerful journey from the past to the present. Through this event, we honor the legacy of freedom, instill pride in our rich history, and inspire a new generation to carry forward the torch of resilience, achievement, and community leadership.
Your involvement is the key to bridging communities and creating a lasting impact on our youth. Sponsors, donors, and volunteers play a crucial role in the Miss Juneteenth Virginia Legacy Program, providing essential support that enables us to empower and uplift the next generation. By joining us, you're not just contributing resources; you're actively shaping a brighter future for young African American women and reinforcing the bonds of our community.
VIRGINIA QUEEN
WINS NATIONALS
In a remarkable display of talent and grace, Miss Sunshine R. Huggins of Smithfield, Virginia, has triumphantly clinched the national title, bringing pride and joy to her home state. A senior at Smithfield High School, this 17-year-old harpist has mesmerized the audience and judges alike with her exceptional musical prowess. Miss Huggins, known for her dedication and vibrant presence, has not only showcased her musical skills but also exemplified the values of hard work and resilience. As she gracefully strummed the strings of her harp, her performance resonated with a depth of emotion while paying honor to the African American legacy and Juneteenth origin. This victory is not just a personal achievement for Miss Huggins but also a moment of great pride for the entire community of Smithfield. Her journey to the nationals has been an inspiring story of passion, discipline, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. We congratulate Miss Sunshine R. Huggins on her outstanding accomplishment and look forward to her bright future.
2023-2024 Miss Juneteenth U.S.A.
"Decisions We Make Today Dictate How We Will Live Tomorrow."
At the Miss Juneteenth Virginia Legacy Program, we firmly believe in the power of choice and its lasting impact on our futures. By joining our program, young girls are not just participating in an event; they are stepping into a world of opportunity, education, and empowerment. Every session, workshop, and mentorship moment is a building block for a brighter, more confident tomorrow.
Join us in this journey of growth and empowerment, where every decision is a step towards a promising future.
Hey Queens!
Welcome to the Miss Juneteenth Virginia Legacy Pageant™
– a celebration of resilience, diversity, and infinite magic.
Welcome to a journey through history and heritage with the #DefyTheOdds Mentorship Program and Miss Juneteenth Virginia Legacy Pageant. At the forefront of our nation's narrative is Juneteenth, a day that marked the end of slavery in Texas and has since evolved into a nationwide symbol of freedom and reflection. Central to the story of Emancipation is Virginia, a state with profound historical significance in this transformative era.
Virginia's role in the path to freedom is undeniable. It was here, in 1619, that the first documented enslaved Africans arrived on American shores aboard the White Lion, a British pirate ship posing as Dutch. This momentous event in Virginia laid the groundwork for what would become a nationwide struggle for emancipation. The state's influence continued throughout the Civil War, especially at Old Point Comfort (now Fort Monroe) in Hampton, where significant strides toward emancipation were made.
In the present day, the Miss Juneteenth Virginia Legacy Program, in partnership with the Miss Juneteenth USA national pageant program, is more than a pageant; it's a beacon of mentorship and empowerment. We take pride in educating urban youth about our collective story – the Story of Us. Our pageant celebrates and amplifies the strengths, talents, and accomplishments within our community. We are committed to educating, elevating, and empowering the youth of Black America. Our goal is to inspire them to unleash their potential and contribute to a future that is rich in shared success and prosperity.
Meet Virginia's Inaugural Queen & The Reigning Miss Juneteenth USA
High School Student Miss Sunshine Huggins of Smithfield, VA, was crowned in Williamsburg, Virginia, on June 19th, 2023. Miss Huggins is a senior at Smithfield High School who plans to minor in surgical technology coupled with a four-year degree in Music Therapy.
She advocates for truth, nature, and mental wellness for youth across the Commonwealth. Ultimately, she believes that Virginia should be "front and center" for Juneteenth initiatives because so many "firsts" occurred here on our shores. For example, the very first reading of the Emancipation Proclamation to the Southern States was delivered under the Emancipation Oak in Hampton, VA.
Sunshine represented the Commonwealth of Virginia at the National Miss Juneteenth USA Scholarship Pageant in October 2023. We are proud to announce that VIRGINIA #CapturedTheCrown and is the reigning National Miss Juneteenth USA Title Winner. Sunshine continues to elevate Virginia's role in Emancipation, Juneteenth Commemoration, and the shared histories of the "Story of Us."
Fun Facts:
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Self-taught Harpist | • Loves Fruit |. • Favorite Genre of Music: R&
The Crown Jewel of the Commonwealth
#DEFYTHEODDS
Step into a world of empowerment with the #DefyTheOdds Mentorship Program, a pivotal element of the Miss Juneteenth Virginia experience. Kicking off with 'Juneteenth 101: The Story of Us', this initiative is more than just a workshop series – it's a transformative journey. Designed to equip participants with invaluable tools to prepare them to overcome any challenges that they may face in their futures. Through a blend of historical wisdom and modern skills, the program fosters resilience, confidence, and a deep sense of purpose. Each participant emerges not only more knowledgeable about their culture but also empowered to chart their own paths of success and #Defy ANY Odds that they may endure.
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Cultural Awareness
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Financial Literacy
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Expression of the Arts
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Economic Empowerment
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Mental Health Resilience
...and more
$4K+
TOTAL DONATIONS RAISED
2.5K+
SOCIAL MEDIA ENGAGEMENT
103
15
MENTORSHIP
HOURS
EDUCATION WORKSHOPS
5K
TOTAL WEBSITE VISITORS
30
COUNTDOWN TO PROGRAM STARTDATE
AND GROWING
"Your story is what you have, what you will always have. It is something to own. Be proud of your story, your struggles, and your triumphs. Tell it with your head held high."
- Michelle Obama
Cultivating Confidence and Community: Celebrating Black Excellence through Education & Mentorship
In the heart of our mission at the Miss Juneteenth Virginia Legacy Program lies a commitment to nurturing self-identity and bolstering self-confidence. Our educational initiatives go beyond academics, delving into the rich tapestry of Black history and culture, thus fostering a deep sense of cultural awareness and pride.
Participating in our program is more than an achievement—it's an affirmation of every participant's unique strengths and potential. Here, we celebrate each girl's journey towards self-realization and confidence, all while honoring the legacy of Juneteenth, and the vibrant historical value from Virginia that authors the "Story of Us."
A DAY IN THE LIFE...
Discover More About
Miss Juneteenth Virginia
Welcome to a journey of empowerment and cultural celebration with the Miss Juneteenth Virginia Legacy Program. This edition is your guide to understanding and participating in a program that honors and nurtures African American heritage through education and mentorship.
Highlights in this issue:
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Purpose: Embracing and sharing African American history and culture.
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Registration Info: Essential details on how to join the program.
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Sponsorships: Opportunities for impactful partnerships and support.
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Program Specifics: Insight into the program's structure and offerings.
Our 2024 Sponsors
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"Diamond: Presenting Sponsor"
"1619- Crown Jewel Sponsor"
"1619- Crown Jewel Sponsor"
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