Coffeeville Hosts First Annual Miss Juneteenth Pageant
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COFFEEVILLE, Miss. — The spirit of Juneteenth, culture, and community pride took center stage on Friday, June 12, 2026, as the first annual Miss Juneteenth Pageant was held at the Coffeeville High School Auditorium. The event brought together contestants, families, supporters, and community leaders for an evening celebrating heritage, achievement, and young leadership.
Hosted by Alisa Thompson, a well-known North Mississippi stylist, entrepreneur, minister, former pageant contestant, and radio personality, the pageant highlighted the talents and accomplishments of local young women while emphasizing the historical significance of Juneteenth.
Contestants were evaluated in several categories, including best Juneteenth attire, talent, formal attire, knowledge of Juneteenth, and fundraising. Judges also considered each contestant’s poise, confidence, and stage presence throughout the competition.
After a competitive and inspiring evening, Janiyah Smith, daughter of Chanquisa Armstrong, was named First Runner-Up. The title of Miss Juneteenth 2026 was awarded to Samantha E. Longstreet, daughter of Mary Roberson, who impressed judges and audience members alike with her grace, confidence, and overall performance. Samantha will be officially presented during the community’s Juneteenth Celebration on June 20, 2026.
The pageant was judged by an esteemed panel consisting of Claudette Avery of Grenada, Valerie Morgan of Taylor, and Rodnie Buford of Oxford, whose thoughtful and professional evaluations helped determine the evening’s winners.
Adding to the excitement of the event, musical entertainment was provided by Dephane Hayes and Gail Smith, whose performances energized the audience and enhanced the celebratory atmosphere.
Organizers described the pageant as a meaningful addition to Coffeeville’s growing Juneteenth observance. The event not only showcased the talents of its contestants but also reinforced the importance of remembering and celebrating the history, resilience, and contributions of African Americans.
The pageant was sponsored by the Coffeeville Juneteenth Planning Committee, whose members include William Shelton, Clayton Horton, Earlene Townes, Sandra Kimble, Jermaine Taylor, and Latrice Kee. Committee members expressed appreciation to the contestants, judges, performers, volunteers, and community supporters whose efforts made the inaugural event possible.
Miss Juneteenth Samantha E. Longstreet
