What Juneteenth Means to Me
Juneteenth, which is observed on June 19, commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. It marks the day when federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas in 1865 to take control of the state and announced that all enslaved people had been emancipated. The troops’ arrival came a full two and a half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation.
As the longest-running African American holiday, Juneteenth presents an opportunity to raise awareness on this important day in history.
To me, Juneteenth means:
Being of service. Whether its checking on an elderly neighbor, or donating my services to benefit a non-profit organization, the essence of Juneteenth to me is playing my part in helping to advance the community.
Supporting black-owned businesses. Being intentional on spending my money on businesses owned by people of color is one way to pay homage to Juneteenth. Businesses, like the ones below, are hallmarks of the black culture and experience. I can be sure to get a piece of home when I shop locally at these businesses – which is a win-win.
Staying grounded in faith. I grew up in the church – my father, a retired pastor, spent decades serving the church. On Juneteenth, for the first time since COVID, I went to church and felt a calmness over me. I was reminded that our history is deeply rooted in spirituality which we must hone in on so that we can pass it down to our children, just like our parents did.
Unity – despite race, gender, and all the other things that differentiate us but does not separate us. Juneteenth means an opportunity to come together, show love and celebrate.
On this Juneteenth, I am driven more than ever to have honest conversations at the dinner table, church, and anywhere else about Juneteenth and its significance. I know that doing so is one way I can pay homage to my ancestors and the sacrifices they made.
