You may or may not have heard by now that Juneteenth has finally been declared a federal holiday. You may have also heard that people like Candace Owens have a serious problem with that because they feel like it takes away from the fourth of July. With all the buzz going around, do you know what the day is even about ? Let’s taco bout it, friends !
When Is It
We Juneteenth is celebrate on June 19th every year.
What Is Juneteenth
This celebration is annual and commemorates the day when the last enslaved African-Americans were informed that they were free. Some people also call it Black Independence Day sometimes or Jubilee Day. The original day that inspired this holiday was June 19, 1985.
Why Is It
Let’s consider this, straight from history.com. “On September 22, 1862, President Abraham Lincoln issued the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, which declared that as of January 1, 1863, all enslaved people in the states currently engaged in rebellion against the Union “shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free.” Frankly put… the people didn’t gaf about this proclamation and it was a battle making slave owners actually let their slaves go. Additionally, those who were already in the midst of running away had no idea what was going on. So where it was roughest, down in Galveston, Texas, they were the last to catch word that theys free na’.
How Is Juneteenth Celebrated
People celebrate Juneteenth islebrated several different ways. Here’s a few ideas for you in case you’re new to this and not true to this yet:
Learn The Full History of Juneteenth
It’s not all fun and games, especially if you’re an ally. It’s a reminder of a very painful time in history. Learn about what exactly went down and why. See how it affected people during that time and how it trickles down to families still today.
Support Black Businesses
Even after we were supposedly granted freedom, we were far from free. This point in time is the freest we have ever been and the rug can be snatched right from underneath us at any given moment for no apparent reason. But at least we can have a chunk of autonomy in this day and age. Let’s celebrate and honor that by supporting those who go against the grain and own their own while servicing their community. Support black businesses.
Attend Events
There’s usually a huge event in major cities everywhere each year. Show up, have fun and show some love !