Significance of Juneteenth Celebration: Why It's Vital to Observe and Engage

Celebrating Juneteenth: The Significance of Commemoration and Engagement

Juneteenth, celebrated annually on June 19, marks a significant milestone in American history – the day when Texas finally received word that slaves had been freed, nearly two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation.

The Emancipation Proclamation, signed in December 1863, only initiated the process of freeing slaves; it was the 13th Amendment, passed in 1865, that abolished slavery in all 50 states. However, Juneteenth serves as a poignant reminder of the long and arduous journey towards freedom for Black Americans.

This year, Juneteenth is not just about celebrations, but also about proactively supporting Black people and progress. Participation can involve a variety of activities, from attending live or virtual events, listening to podcasts, or streaming educational or joyful films. Two large national Juneteenth music festivals, the Juneteenth Music Festival and The Juneteenth Foundation Freedom Festival, are taking place over the weekend.

However, Juneteenth is also a time for reflection and practical action. It's a time to acknowledge the start of the freedom process for Black people and think about how to foster advancement in the community. This could involve visiting a Black history museum, doing community service, or interviewing an elder in the community.

President Joe Biden has been a significant figure in supporting the Juneteenth celebration, emphasizing that "Black history is American history." In 2021, Juneteenth was signed into law as a federal holiday, recognised as Juneteenth National Independence Day.

There are numerous ways to observe Juneteenth. Simple ways include giving your team or employees the day off, petitioning for it to be a national holiday, or dedicating your content to amplifying Black voices.

In addition to celebrations, there are numerous resources available to deepen one's understanding of the Black experience in America. The powerful documentary "I Am Not Your Negro" offers a searing look at racism in America through the eyes and words of the late writer/activist James Baldwin. The Netflix documentary "13th" dissects mass incarceration and the stronghold of racism within the American justice system.

The podcast "Into America" tells the experience of being Black in America, while "Sounds Like Hate" shares stories of people searching for hope after experiencing hate in their own communities. "Be Antiracist with Ibram X. Kendi" is a companion to the international bestselling book, How To Be An Antiracist, written by Kendi. "How To Citizen with Baratunde" dissects the word "citizen" and reimagines it as a verb.

Lastly, the historical drama "Selma" spotlights the Selma-to-Montgomery Voting Rights Marches of 1965, led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. These resources provide insight into the Black experience in America and serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and freedom.

In conclusion, Juneteenth is a time to practice empathy and support equality through productive use of privilege. It's a day to remember the past, celebrate the present, and work towards a brighter future for all Americans.