Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - Masten District Councilwoman Zeneta Everhart is proposing a restriction of unaccompanied teenagers for future Juneteenth festivals. This comes in response to numerous fights reported during the 2025 celebration this past weekend.
To ensure a safer celebration with less violence, Everhart's plan involves providing a space dedicated to youth programming, as well as allowing unaccompanied teenagers to attend festivals with community organizations.
The 2025 Juneteenth Festival, held in the City of Buffalo on June 14-15, saw fights erupt both days of this year's celebration. With the 50th anniversary of the festival launching more events this summer, safety measures are becoming more essential for those in attendance.
Everhart's proposal to ensure better safety at events is aimed at restricting unaccompanied teenagers, ensuring they are with a parent or guardian upon entry to events, or are with identified and approved community organizations.