Communities throughout Connecticut and across the country took time Friday to commemorate Juneteenth.

The holiday originates in Texas in 1865, when slaves were told they were free, even though slavery was officially abolished by the Emancipation Proclamation two years before that.

The day has taken on renewed significance this year following the recent weeks of unrest throughout the country triggered by the police-custody death of George Floyd.

MORE: Bridgeport Juneteenth celebration founder celebrates milestone 

Hundreds gathered at Veterans Memorial Park to commemorate the day.

Andrea Robinson, of Westport, says she grew up in a diverse neighborhood, but she wants her kids to learn more.

"White children especially, we don't really talk about race or racism in our houses. We just, we don't need to. And I think starting to talk about it is bringing it out so they are aware," she says. "I think there's so much in history that's been lost and not taught and it starts even before Juneteenth, but I think that's why we need to celebrate it."

Chaquanzha Stephenson is a youth mentor who spoke at the event. She says Juneteenth felt new this year in light of recent events.

"We're here today to educate people on what Juneteenth is all about and what it means to us," she says. "I think the world is crying out. So, it's not us just here in the states, it's not just Blacks. You see all different walks of life just appreciating the black life a little bit more."

Stephenson says her goal is to incorporate more Black history into school curriculums, "because Black people built America. So, without black people, there technically wouldn't be an America"

Stephenson adds, "Our current leader is someone that needed to be in place in order to expose all of these things. And now that we know we can fight for the justice that is deserved."

Many speakers took to the microphone during the event to discuss how to push the movement forward.