The Oak Cliff community commemorated the past as they prepared for the future during the sixth annual Oak Cliff Juneteenth Festival, June 20. This year the event had a farmers market theme which brought Black-owned produce and gardening vendors together to encourage self-sufficiency as it relates to healthy food accessibility.

“Oak Cliff is a food desert. At the Oak Cliff Veggie Project, our goal is to create a more resilient community by teaching people how to grow their own food and making fresh produce more accessible,” said R. Nelson Winrow, president of Oak Cliff Veggie Project.

Located in the historic Tenth Street District of Oak Cliff, the organization runs a community garden with micro-farms created to achieve three goals – educate the community, cultivate fresh produce and prepare food for families.

Its mission is to create a healthier, stronger and more self-reliant community in Southern Dallas. Residents of targeted apartment complexes are offered a flat fee for bulk packages of fresh produce. The organization also partners with Roosevelt High School to educate students entering the culinary arts track about agriculture and sustainability.

Presenting partners For Oak Cliff and Halperin Park teamed up with Dallas Parks and Recreation and Oak Cliff Veggie Project to create a family-friendly experience at the park. The day was filled with live music by Black Canvas Band, food trucks, cooking demonstrations, a splash zone and a children’s talent show.