The Importance of Recognizing Juneteenth!
By Latrice Lewis
On June 19 1865, nearly two years after President Abraham Lincoln emancipated enslaved Africans in America, Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas with news of freedom. More than 250,000 African Americans embraced freedom by executive decree in what became known as Juneteenth or Freedom Day.
Why recognize Juneteenth in the workplace? If there is anything that we have learned over the years, it is that people from all walks of life agree that the Black American experience has historically been one of oppression and second-class citizenship. So why should your company support the holiday? Not only may it signal to black employees that you stand with them through tumultuous and emotional times, but you are also acknowledging to your entire community that the black experience is one worth acknowledging.
What are some ways to acknowledge Juneteenth as an employer? One thing to remember is everyone may have different feelings about the history and actions behind the celebration of Juneteenth. A brief discussion or conversation with your black employees might be a great start to letting your employees know that they are valued.
Here are some Juneteenth ideas to consider for your organization:
Donate to a charity to organizations that may be important to the African American community,
Host a Juneteenth Lunch & Learn discussion,
Host a Juneteenth Party and Invite a Special Guest, (preferably with history from your community).
Here are just a few ideas to help celebrate diversity and demonstrate value for inclusion.
Juneteenth in the Workplace: Why Your Company Should Celebrate