AlexisImagine the reaction of African American ancestors when they first heard that they were free. Would it have been a shock? Were there tears of joy or cries of jubilation? Perhaps they felt paralysis, resentment, or even a mix of all the feelings. Centuries later, people would commemorate that moment all across the country. Imagine if they knew!
Imagine the reaction of African American ancestors when they first heard that they were free. Would it have been a shock? Were there tears of joy or cries of jubilation? Perhaps they felt paralysis, resentment, or even a mix of all the feelings. Centuries later, people would commemorate that moment all across the country. Imagine if they knew!
What is Juneteenth?
What is Juneteenth?
On June 19th, 1865, the Union soldiers officially announced that the Civil War was over, and slaves were free in Galveston, Texas, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Since then, the day has been known as “Freedom Day” or “Juneteenth Independence Day.” While Juneteenth was widely celebrated in Texas, it was not until 2021 that President Joe Biden declared it a federal holiday, and its observance became nationwide.
going here
How Does the Black Community Celebrate?
How Does the Black Community Celebrate?
Some celebrate the holiday with family gatherings, barbecues, or speeches.
For many, it is simply a time for reflection and deliberation.
In Galveston,
Good Vibes in the Park Juneteenth Celebration – Harlem, NY
How will I Celebrate?
How will I Celebrate?
I’ll celebrate by acknowledging the achievements in the black community since then and rejoicing in how far we’ve come. But I’ll also assess the remaining
socio-economic gaps
. I’ll visualize a future where low-income minorities have the resources they need to complete their college educations and see doors open for themselves – a future where they will have built the generational wealth that has eluded the black community in America.
How Can You Celebrate?
How Can You Celebrate?
If you’re looking for ways to celebrate, think of how to spread love and light. Reach out to a friend of color and wish them a happy commemoration day. Think of supporting the black community in your city. Visit black-owned businesses or donate to organizations committed to minority empowerment. Understand how the history has impacted your life. Or thank those who gave you a leg up in your education or career.
If you’re looking for ways to celebrate, think of how to spread love and light. Reach out to a friend of color and wish them a happy commemoration day. Think of supporting the black community in your city. Visit black-owned businesses or donate to organizations committed to minority empowerment. Understand how the history has impacted your life. Or thank those who gave you a leg up in your education or career.
However you choose to celebrate, what’s important is that you just celebrate! And I would love to hear all about it when you do. Let me know in the comments, or email us your pictures. Have a proud and happy Juneteenth!
However you choose to celebrate, what’s important is that you just celebrate! And I would love to hear all about it when you do. Let me know in the comments, or email us your pictures. Have a proud and happy Juneteenth!