By: Marva Sneed
The Dallas County Democratic Party (DCDP) and the Texas Coalition of Black Democrats Dallas Chapter hosted the 2026 Juneteenth Burger Bash at the Henry B. Tippie National Aviation Education Center, located at Dallas Executive Airport.
Held inside a historic World War II aircraft hangar, the evening blended history, culture, and community celebration. Guests enjoyed a buffet, music from a DJ, and guided tours of vintage aircraft while honoring the powerful role of Black storytellers in preserving and sharing the experiences of Black communities.
The evening’s centerpiece was the inaugural Black Storyteller Awards, presented by DCDP to five distinguished Black media professionals whose work has documented, defended, and amplified voices throughout Dallas County and beyond.
The program featured remarks from Kardal Coleman, Chair of the Dallas County Democratic Party, and Kendyll Locke, 2026 Burger Bash Event Chair.
Honorees included:
- Cheryl Smith, Publisher of Texas Metro News — The Luminary Award
- Jessica Washington, The Dallas Weekly — Community Voice Award
- DeDe McGuire, Host of DeDe in the Morning — The Changemaker Award
- Tashara Parker, Host of The Tashara Parker Show — The Truth-Teller Award
- Mollie Belt, Publisher of The Dallas Examiner — The Legacy in Media Award
The celebration also provided an opportunity for Democratic candidates to connect with attendees ahead of the November election. Vikki Goodwin, Sarah Eckhardt, and Damarcus Offord introduced themselves, shared the offices they are seeking, and discussed what voters can expect moving toward Election Day.
The Juneteenth Burger Bash honored the importance of community, civic engagement, and the storytellers who continue to shape the narrative of Black life and history in Dallas and beyond.
