4th Annual Juneteenth Pageant Returns to Madisonville

The 4th Annual Juneteenth Pageant will return to Madisonville on Saturday, June 6, bringing together young people and families from across the region for an evening celebrating confidence, culture and community.

The event will be held at the Ballard Convention Center, 605 E. Arch St., with doors opening at 6 p.m.

Founded during the COVID-19 pandemic by family members Roneshia Evans, Melissa Igbinigie and Faye Clark, the pageant was created to provide a meaningful Juneteenth celebration for the community while challenging traditional definitions of beauty.

“This is not a beauty contest,” Evans said. “We want participants to represent themselves, their heritage, their resilience and their culture.”

Since its debut in 2023 with just nine participants, the pageant has continued to grow, expanding its categories and attracting families from across Kentucky and neighboring states.

Unlike many traditional pageants, contestants are not judged on physical appearance. Instead, judges focus on confidence, presentation and attire. Participants are also encouraged to wear clothing they already own rather than purchasing expensive outfits, helping make the event more accessible for families.

The pageant now includes categories for Tiny Miss, Mini Miss, Little Miss, Miss, Lady, Tiny Mister and Mini Mister. Evans said the addition of boys’ categories and younger participants has been one of the event’s most rewarding developments.

One of the pageant’s primary goals is to help young people build confidence and embrace their individuality.

Growing up in a rural community where narrow beauty standards often prevailed, Evans said it was important to create a space where children of all skin tones, hair textures and body types feel welcomed and celebrated.

“We want every participant to know they are beautiful just the way they are,” she said.

The pageant also serves as a way to educate participants and families about the significance of Juneteenth. Members of the pageant’s royalty court are required to attend at least one Juneteenth event in their local communities, encouraging them to serve as ambassadors for the holiday and its history.

Community support remains a major focus of the event.

“Come out and encourage these young people,” Evans said. “For some of them, simply walking across that stage is a huge accomplishment.”

Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children. Community members are invited to attend and support participants as they take the stage in one of Madisonville’s growing Juneteenth traditions.