Freedom Day
Juneteenth is a holiday that commemorates the emancipation of the last enslaved African Americans in the United States. Celebrated on June 19th, it is also known as Emancipation Day, Freedom Day, or Jubilee Day. Juneteenth is celebrated because it is the day that Back Americans in Texas were finally told that they were free and that the institution of slavery was no more. This was over two years after the actual end of the Civil War itself. Today, we look to the date as we continue to work towards true equality in America. It’s impact and the renewal of the energy around Juneteenth come on the heels of a critical time in the country. From the backlash to President Barack Obama to the visibility of brutality via social media, Juneteenth is a point for us to come together for political, cultural, and economic planning and growth.
The origins of Juneteenth can be traced back to the Emancipation Proclamation, which was issued by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863. The proclamation declared “that all persons held as slaves” within the Confederate states “are, and henceforward shall be free.” However, the proclamation did not immediately free all enslaved African Americans, as it only applied to those within Confederate states that were in rebellion against the Union. It was not until Union soldiers arrived in Texas on June 19, 1865, that the news of the Emancipation Proclamation and the end of the Civil War reached the last group of enslaved African Americans in the United States. This event, which took place in Galveston, Texas, became what we know as Juneteenth and has since become an important day of celebration for African Americans.
Juneteenth Celebrations Vary
Juneteenth is celebrated in a variety of ways, from parades, to festivals, cookouts, and community gatherings. It is a time to reflect on the past, honor the legacy of those who fought for freedom and equality, and celebrate the achievements of African Americans. It is also an opportune time to support black owned businesses, which play an important role in promoting economic empowerment and self-determination. By shopping with black owned businesses, consumers can help to support the local economy and contribute to the growth and success of these businesses and their communities.
Juneteenth has a significant legacy in the fight for civil rights and the ongoing struggle for racial equality in America. Black owned businesses have played an important role in this struggle by providing economic opportunities and promoting self-determination within the African American community. When you support black owned businesses, you can help to create a more equitable and just society. This is because these businesses have different goals and stake holders. Most Black Owned Businesses are not large corporations whose profits flow to the people who are already wealthy. They often provide the entry into career fields for people who are overlooked because of their backgrounds. Juneteenth is a great opportunity to do so. Recognizing Juneteenth as a national holiday promotes a greater understanding and awareness of its historical significance.
Community is Important
The Spice Suite in Washington D.C. began as a store started by Angel Gregorio and that vision grew into her latest venture, Black and Forth. This strip mall houses multiple businesses and classes and events for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Black business owners are crucial for the health and well-being of the black community. They provide economic opportunities and financial stability within the community. By creating jobs and career opportunities, black business owners contribute to reducing unemployment rates and poverty levels. This economic empowerment allows individuals to support their families, invest in education, and improve their overall quality of life.These all play a vital role in community development. They often cater to the specific needs and interests of the black community, offering products, services, and cultural experiences that resonate.However, despite all of those factors, Black Owned Businesses still receive less funding than other types of businesses. Shopping with them is one of the most important ways that they can drive revenue and grow their businesses.The growth of these businesses not only foster a sense of pride and identity but also strengthen the social fabric. This helps to ensure healthier communities which lead to healthier outcomes for residents.
Overall, Juneteenth provides an important opportunity to reflect on the past, celebrate the achievements of the African American community, and plant seeds for the future, hopefully with the support of black owned businesses. Incorporating Black businesses in Juneteenth and other cultural celebrations helps to ensure they get community support, and that they are able to return the support and have a positive impact on the community as well. Juneteenth is an opportunity for cultural, social, and entrepreneurial work to be done within the Black Community.
