State of the Community 2026

State of the Community: Leadership in Conversation
📅 Thursday, June 18, 2026
🕕 6:00 PM
📍 Handsboro Community Center
Hosted by The Griots Society of the Gulf Coast
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✊🏾 The Urgency for Collective Action
As we celebrate Juneteenth and honor the ongoing pursuit of freedom, justice, and opportunity, join us for one of Freedom Week’s most impactful and thought-provoking events.
This year’s State of the Community: Leadership in Conversation will bring together elected officials, policy experts, advocates, and community leaders to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing minority communities today—and how we move forward together.
🎙 Featured Panelists
Rep. Jeffrey Hulum III
Mississippi House of Representatives
Dr. Crystal Wingo
Founder, The Diversity Center
Alicia Netterville, MPPA, Esq.
Principal, Acclivity Strategies
Moderator
Brandy McGill
WLOX News
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🏆 2026 Juneteenth Community Awards
We will also recognize outstanding leaders and organizations whose service and impact continue to strengthen communities throughout the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
Honorees:
Carissa Corbett
Christene Brice Leader in Action Award
Legacy Business League
Harry C. Tartt Trailblazer Award
Corey Watts
Lloyd Croutch Service Award
Alyssa Gates
Bobby Hudson III Trailblazer Award
Rutha H. Evans Medal for Cultural Education & Awareness
🏅 Sammie Wiseman
🏅 Nick Eden
🏅 Taja Cunningham
🏅 Connie Obillo
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🎭 Inspiration Through Art
Experience a special artistic presentation celebrating resilience, culture, freedom, and the enduring power of community.
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Why Attend?
✔ Learn about issues impacting our communities
✔ Hear directly from leaders and changemakers
✔ Connect with residents, advocates, and organizations
✔ Celebrate local excellence
✔ Be part of shaping the future of the Mississippi Gulf Coast
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FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Bring your family, friends, colleagues, church members, and neighbors.
Together, we remember our history, honor our leaders, and advance our future.
🌐 www.griotsgpt.org
📧 [email protected]