Juneteenth has been celebrated by Black Americans since 1866, but has been largely overlooked, marginalized, and unknown to many Americans until recently. Juneteenth would not become recognized as a federal holiday until June 18th, 2021, after a proclamation by President Joe Biden.
“On Juneteenth, we recommit ourselves to the work of equity, equality, and justice. And, we celebrate the centuries of struggle, courage, and hope that have brought us to this time of progress and possibility. That work has been led throughout our history by abolitionists and educators, civil rights advocates and lawyers, courageous activists and trade unionists, public officials, and everyday Americans who have helped make real the ideals of our founding documents for all.” – Joe Biden
This recognition came after Americans wrestled with the unjust treatment of people of color by major institutions in the United States after the deaths of Breonna Tylor and George Floyd. The establishment of Juneteenth as a Federal holiday was a major step in the recognition and remembrance for Black communities in America.
What Is Juneteenth
While the Emancipation Proclamation was put into effect in 1863, many enslaved peoples in areas still under Confederate control would not see freedom for some time. On June 19th, 1855, more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, nearly 2,000 Union troops made their way to Galveston Bay and other parts of Texas to free enslaved African Americans. On that day, the army announced that the over 250,000 enslaved Black people in the state of Texas were free by executive decree. From that day on June 19th came to be known as “Juneteenth” by the freed people in America.
Juneteenth marks the second United States Independence Day and demonstrates the importance of hope, justice, and equality.
How To Celebrate and Honor Juneteenth
Cookouts and Large Gatherings: Juneteenth celebrations are rooted in large cookouts and barbecues because it brought enslaved people together during important communal affairs. After Freedom Day, Juneteenth celebrations became revolutionary with the lack of restrictive measures, known as “Black Codes,” that were enforced in Confederate states. There are plenty of local Juneteenth Gatherings and Festivals to attend!
Rest and Remembrance: For some, Juneteenth celebrations are used as a day for Rest and Remembrance for how far our Black communities have come and how much they have endured.
Education: Juneteenth can be used as a day to work on inner growth, understanding, and education for those inside or outside of the Black Community. This can include attending an education panel, doing community service, volunteering at a Juneteenth festival or celebration, or visiting a Black Museum or cultural site.
Support Black Organizations and Individuals in Your Community:
Juneteenth is an incredible opportunity for non-Black allies to demonstrate solidarity with the Black community by giving your time and/or resources in support of the Black Community. Think about working with nearby Black-led groups, volunteering at a Juneteenth celebration, patronizing local Black owned businesses, or making direct financial donations to organizations of the Black community.
Juneteenth Events in the NC Triangle Area:
Juneteenth Jubilee 2024 At John Chavis Memorial Park Wednesday, June 19, 1-4 p.m.: https://raleighnc.gov/parks-and-recreation/news/juneteenth-jubilee-2024
Urban Community AgriNomics
Juneteenth Observance Ceremony Wednesday, June 19 6- 7 p.m.: https://www.ucan.today/
Juneteenth Jamboree Wednesday, June 19 at 7:00 p.m. at Sarah P. Duke Gardens: https://arts.duke.edu/events/juneteenth-jamboree/
Some Local Black-Owned Businesses:
Good Trip Gallery: https://www.goodtrip.ink/
Needle & Thread Co.: https://www.needlethreadco.com/
19FiftyOne restaurant, café, and bar: https://19fiftyone.com/
Beyu Caffé: http://www.beyucaffe.com/
Bright Black.: http://www.brightblackcandles.com/
401 Main: https://401main.com
Mama Dip’s: https://mamadips.com
Chapel Hill-Carrboro NAACP: https://www.chapelhillcarrboronaacp.com
Bettye’s Flower Design: https://www.bettyesflowerdesign.com
References:
“The Historical Legacy of Juneteenth.” National Museum of African American History and Culture, 1 June 2023, nmaahc.si.edu/explore/stories/historical-legacy-juneteenth.
“A Proclamation on Juneteenth Day of Observance, 2021.” The White House, The United States Government, 18 June 2021, www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/06/18/a-proclamation-on-juneteenth-day-of-observance-2021/.
By: Alexandria Crews
Alexandria is an Editorial Assistant at Technica Editorial
