A Celebration of Freedom: Why Juneteenth Matters to Us All
As parents, we celebrate countless milestones. First wobbly steps, messy masterpieces declaring "best mom/dad ever," and of course, birthdays. But this Juneteenth, we find ourselves reflecting on a different kind of celebration, one steeped in history and a reminder of a freedom long overdue: Juneteenth.
You might be wondering, why should Juneteenth matter to us? Here's the thing: freedom isn't a singular experience. It's a ripple effect, a tide that lifts all boats. When one group is denied their liberty, it casts a long shadow on everyone.
Juneteenth commemorates the day Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, on June 19th, 1865, announcing the end of slavery in the United States. It's a harsh reminder that freedom wasn't automatic, even after the Emancipation Proclamation. It took over two years for that news to reach all enslaved people.
Celebrating Juneteenth allows us to teach our children about the fight for equality. It's a chance to talk about the resilience of the Black community, their unwavering pursuit of freedom despite unimaginable hardship. It's a reminder that true freedom requires constant vigilance and a commitment to building a more just world for everyone.
Here's how Juneteenth resonates with us as parents:
A Shared Future: We want our children to grow up in a world where race isn't a barrier to opportunity. Celebrating Juneteenth is a way to acknowledge the past and commit to building a future where everyone has the chance to thrive.
Diversity Makes Us Stronger: Our communities are richer when we embrace different backgrounds and experiences. Juneteenth is a chance to celebrate the vibrant tapestry of American culture, acknowledging the contributions of Black people throughout history.
Standing Up for What's Right: Juneteenth reminds us of the importance of speaking out against injustice. It shows us the power of collective action and the courage it takes to fight for what's right. These are values we want to instill in our children.
Juneteenth isn't just a Black holiday. It's a celebration of freedom for all of us. It's a call to action to create a more just and equitable society. And as parents, that's a future we want to fight for, one celebration at a time.
So, this Juneteenth, we will:
Learn More: Research the history of Juneteenth and share it with our children.
Support Black Businesses: Seek out and patronize Black-owned businesses in our community.
Have Open Conversations: Talk to our children about race, equality, and the importance of standing up for what's right.
Juneteenth is a reminder that freedom is a gift, and like any gift, it needs to be cherished, protected, and shared. So, let's celebrate Juneteenth not just for the historical significance, but for the promise it holds for a brighter future for all.
