GONZALES, Texas - June 19 marks another Juneteenth.

The day in 1865 when Union Troops in Galveston told slaves they were finally freed following the end of the Civil War.

Texas was the first state to make it a holiday in 1980.

It's a holiday taking on new importance amid the growing demands for racial justice.

Social media comments made by a group planning to show up at a Juneteenth celebration with firearms and ammunition has attendees worried.

Both sides are set to gather tomorrow at Confederate Square in Gonzales, TX.

We asked local law enforcement there about plans to keep everyone involved safe.

Tension mounting in the City of Gonzales, hours before a Juneteenth celebration kicks off at Confederate Square.

On one side, a group celebrating when Texas slaves were set free. On the other a group of gun-toting men.

"This is a defensive measure we are taking, we are protecting the monuments," said Brandon Burkhart, President of This is Texas Freedom Force.

This is Texas Freedom Force takes pride of in protecting Texas history.

In a social media post, leaders of the non-profit are asking members to show up tomorrow armed, with plenty of ammunition, and to keep women and children home.

"We need to make sure our men are prepared to go to war if the need arises," Burkhart said.

Even though organizers are planning a peaceful celebration, fear of the unknown is real.

Given widespread riots and looting that have taken place at demonstrations across the country.

"If outsiders come in, it’s not because we invited them," said Juneteenth organizer Vanessa Hastings.

Prayer groups have been gathering at the town square.

"Just for peace and love, for revival be released in Gonzales," said Pastor Ray Remmers of Life Changing Church.

“We're going to maintain peace and order," said Gonzales Police Chief Tim Crow.

Chief Tim Crow says Gonzales Police are working with the Gonzales County Sheriff's Office and Texas State Police to keep everyone safe.

"Strongly confident that it's going to remain peaceful," Crow said.

While Crow believes both groups will keep the peace there are concerns about outside detractors.

"If they do come we can't stop them, said Juneteenth organizer Joe White. “If they do come, come with peace. If not we'd prefer that they just stay home."

Burkhart agrees, "That's what we told our people if you can't stand there and keep your mouth shut don't come out we don't need you."

The Juneteenth celebration in Gonzales is set to begin at 6:30 Friday night.