Why Juneteenth is So Important
Only 3 states recognize this day as a paid day off. Here's why the 47 others should too.
Right now, the country is in a state of protest. Protest against the system, protest against society. But these protests are not the beginning, and - for now - are certainly not the end.
What is "Juneteenth"?
"Juneteenth" is a term combining the month of June and its 19th day, commemorating the day in history when African-American slaves in Texas were freed. This holiday celebrates the liberation of long oppressed black people in the United States, and is arguably as important to our nation as the original independence day of the first American colonies.
"Juneteenth has never been a celebration of victory, or an acceptance of the way things are. It's a celebration of progress. It's an affirmation that despite the most painful parts of our history, change is possible––and there is still so much work to do." Barack Obama via Twitter
Why Juneteenth is Important
As protests continue throughout the nation against police brutality, systemic racism and the economic and structural disadvantages persons of color face across the country, states such as New York, Texas, and Virginia announced plans to make Juneteenth a paid holiday. Nike, Twitter and even the NFL quickly followed suit.
These acts have not gone unnoticed, and although there is a glimmer of optimism to be found, 94% of the nation has yet to join in this celebration. As written by Jamelle Bouie for the New York Times, "... if Americans are going to mark and celebrate Juneteenth, then they should do so with the knowledge and awareness of the agency of enslaved people."
"Recognizing Juneteenth as a national holiday would be a small gesture compared with the greater social needs of black people in America. But it can remind us of our journey toward freedom, and the work America still has to do." Usher via the Washington Post
Juneteenth may mark just one moment in the historic oppression of black people by white people, but the larger movement in the nation not only allows us, but forces us to reflect on the many contributions of enslaved black Americans of the 1800s to progressive African-Americans of today.
"[Juneteenth] gives us another way to recognize the central place of slavery and its demise in our national story." Jamelle Bouie of the New York Times
How You Can Celebrate Juneteenth
There are many different ways to celebrate Juneteenth. States in the south celebrate with traditional readings and songs. Others celebrate by consuming red food and drink, such as watermelon, strawberry soda, red punch, etc. As written by a fellow writer at Vocal Margaret Minnicks, "the color of those foods and drinks symbolizes the blood that was shed during slavery."
Across the country, there have been concerts, parties, and even parades in honor of Juneteenth. (Due to coronavirus, these celebrations may have to be postponed or toned down) Large companies such as Quicken Loans, Target, Google, Square, Lyft, the New York Times, Postmates, Vox, and JCPenny are also letting their employees have a paid day off. Even more are expected to follow the example of those listed above.
Slavery is our nation's history. Racism is ingrained in the system. But this year's Juneteenth will not be overlooked. It will not be just recognized, but fulfilled. Slavery is rid of the United States, but the oppression that people of color face is far from over. Let us celebrate this Juneteenth not just for historical meaning, but for the social reform to come.
"There are so many more parts to this story... This Juneteenth, let's all pledge to keep using our voices - and votes - to keep that story marching forward for our own children, and theirs." Michelle Obama via Twitter
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