Understanding Juneteenth
Juneteenth is a remarkable time in American history. For more than one and a half centuries, Black communities have held this day sacred. It celebrates the day in 1865 when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, discovered they had been freed. This happened two years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation and after the Civil War had ended.
Since being acknowledged as a federal holiday in 2021, Juneteenth is gaining universal recognition. Schools and workplaces observe it as a day off, with numerous events such as street festivals, fairs and concerts organized to commemorate the day.
How to Celebrate Juneteenth
You may be wondering – what’s the “right” way to celebrate Juneteenth? In truth, there isn’t one exact answer. Celebration methods can range from attending vibrant festivities to spending a peaceful day in quiet remembrance.
The Spirit of Juneteenth
Initially, the celebration began outdoors with sizeable, lively reunions among formerly enslaved family members, many of whom had been separated. These meetings were particularly groundbreaking as they were devoid of restrictive laws known as “Black Codes” that regulated the everyday life of liberated slaves.
In recent years, celebrations like the one on the White House’s South Lawn for Juneteenth have contributed to a festive atmosphere. Singers like Gladys Knight and Patti LaBelle raised the excitement level by performing popular tunes across various genres. Vice President Kamala Harris, the first Black vice-president, graced the stage, dancing to the inspiring tunes.
An Alternative Approach
Simultaneously, some choose to commemorate Juneteenth as a day of rest and reflection. Activities may include community service, attending an educational seminar, or taking the day off. According to Dr. David Anderson, CEO of Gracism Global, it is essential to make people feel they have a range of options to observe the day.
Juneteenth for Beginners
Haven’t celebrated Juneteenth before? That’s okay. Many, including Dr. Anderson, didn’t know about Juneteenth until they were adults. The celebrations vary, particularly for African Americans who grew up farther from Texas. In the South, commemoration times might fluctuate based on when news of Emancipation reached each state.
Nationwide Juneteenth Celebrations
There are myriads of public Juneteenth events across the country. These can range from carnival-like festivals with food trucks, arts and crafts, and parades, to educational panels that remind people of Juneteenth’s significance.
The National Park Service, for the first time since Juneteenth was federally recognized, is allowing free entry into all its sites on the holiday.
Special Juneteenth Foods
Food holds a vital place in Juneteenth celebrations. A traditional Juneteenth menu invariably includes items like barbecued ribs, watermelon, and red velvet cake alongside beverages like fruit punch and red Kool-Aid. The color red symbolizes the struggles and sacrifices of enslaved ancestors.
Celebrate Regardless of Your Race
Dr. Karida Brown, a sociology professor at Emory University, believes non-Black people should also recognize and celebrate Juneteenth. She believes it is a shared history, a record of emancipation and freedom for Black brothers and sisters under the Constitution of the law.
Dr. Anderson suggests educating oneself as a means of authentic recognition. Perusing a book on the topic or learning about Black history beyond the well-known figures can be beneficial.
In Conclusion
Whether through attending an event, reading a book, or visiting an African American history museum, everyone is encouraged to deepen their understanding of the significance of Juneteenth. Choose the way you want to commemorate the day and keep alive the spirit of Juneteenth.