By Ashley Barnes
What is Juneteenth?
One June 17, 2021 Juneteenth became the 11th holiday recognized by the federal government in the United States. It commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, emphasizing education and achievement while celebrating African American culture. The holiday originated in Galveston, Texas and has been celebrated annually on June 19th within the United States since 1865. The name “Juneteenth” originates from the combination of “June” and the number 19. This year, Juneteenth falls on Father’s Day. It is a day of remembrance, recognition, and celebration.
How to celebrate and support.
Los Angeles holds several Juneteenth events throughout the city; attend to show your support and help the community celebrate!
Another great way to celebrate Juneteenth is by supporting Black-owned businesses! Being a diverse city, Los Angeles county has a multitude of Black-owned businesses. Book stores, coffee shops, cultural institutions, fashion and lifestyle businesses, health and wellness businesses, and restaurants are some examples of Black-owned businesses we can support. No act is too small and can assist in closing the racial wealth gap, strengthening local economies.
In day-to-day life, we can support the Black community and celebrate Juneteenth by spreading the word about the holiday, educating others on the history and meaning behind it. Diversity conversations are conversations worth having. Furthermore, knowledge is power! We can support this wonderful community by engaging our friends and loved ones in conversation regarding the holiday’s significance and importance. Spreading the word can create a domino effect of awareness, cultural humility, and respect.
We can also vote on laws that directly and positively impact the Black community; systemic change is real change!
Resources.
- Juneteenth.com – provides educational resources for Juneteenth including history of the holiday.
- History.com – provides educational and historical information about Juneteenth.
- National Museum of African American History and Culture