Juneteenth is a commemoration of the day when slaves in Texas and Louisiana heard they were free. It became the day of emancipation for thousands in 1865, which was two and a half years after Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. 156 years later, on June 2021, the US Senate unanimously passed a bill to recognize Juneteenth as a federal holiday. Juneteenth is a day to celebrate and share stories of Black resilience, resistance, liberation, and joy. There are many ways to observe the historical day as allies:
- Read and share resources about Juneteenth, its history, and significance
- NYT Article: Juneteenth: The History of a Holiday
- Smithsonian: The Historical Legacy of Juneteenth
- Podcast by Professor Annette Gordon-Reed: How to Keep Juneteenth Alive All Year Round
- Eat at Black-owned restaurants
- EatOkra – app & website that helps in finding Black-owned food businesses
- Eat Black Owned – website directory for Black-owned restaurants in every country
- Support Black-owned businesses
- BLK + GRN: All Natural Marketplace by All Black Artisans
- Black Business Green Book – a directory of Black-owned businesses across the US
- Donate to Black-led nonprofits and community organizations
- Giving Gap – website that includes Black-led nonprofits and organizes them by cause and state
- Explore Juneteenth Celebrations in your local community.
On this memorial day, let us stand together in solidarity and support. It is a day of remembrance, reflection, and celebration of freedom. We acknowledge the resilience, strength, and perseverance of those who fought for liberation from slavery. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to equality, justice, and unity. Let us use this moment to educate, uplift, and amplify the voices of Black communities. May Juneteenth serve as a reminder that the struggle for freedom is ongoing, and we must actively work towards dismantling systemic racism. Together, we can create a future where every individual is valued, respected, and truly free. Happy Juneteenth!
