“Struggle is a never-ending process. Freedom is never really won, 
you earn it and win it in every generation.” – Coretta Scott King

Juneteenth is an annual holiday celebrated in the United States on June 19th. It is a day of remembrance, reflection, and celebration of African American history and culture.

This Juneteenth, here are some ways to celebrate, as well as challenge yourself to learn more through these videos, experiences, and insights:

Educate yourself
Take time to learn about the history of Juneteenth and its’ significance. Read books, watch documentaries, or listen to podcasts that delve into the narratives of African Americans and their fight for freedom.

Take the day off to honor its significance
Taking the day off on Juneteenth can be a meaningful approach to pay homage to the holiday’s importance. It allows you the chance to dedicate time to reflect, engage in educational pursuits, and participate in community events. Even if you choose not to take the day off, there are still numerous ways to actively participate in Juneteenth-related activities. You can explore options like attending parades, festivals, concerts, and educational programs organized by local community centers, museums, or cultural organizations in your area.

Volunteer or donate
Contribute to organizations that advocate for social justice and racial equality. Seek out local nonprofits or national organizations that actively strive to advance the rights and welfare of African Americans. Consider volunteering your time, making a financial contribution, or participating in community service projects.

Reflect and share
Take some time to reflect on the progress that has been made in the fight for racial equality and acknowledge the work that still needs to be done. Share your thoughts, experiences, and insights on social media or with your friends and family. Encourage dialogues that foster comprehension and empathy, creating spaces for meaningful conversations.

We’ll leave you with the following videos, experiences, and insights about Juneteenth – and with the challenge to continue sharing these unique and impactful stories today and every day.

Opal Lee, the ‘Grandmother of Juneteenth’

If you’re not already familiar with Opal Lee, learn about her story here, and via the following video.

Sari Gillen, Senior Recruiter at Goodwin Recruiting

Every year when Juneteenth comes around, I get a warm place in my heart as it reminds me of how I learned the significance of this holiday. On June 19, 1997, my husband and I welcomed our third child, our precious Julianne. She was a month premature and only 5 lbs., but healthy – and perfect! She looked like a tiny bean so that is what we called her, Beany.

Julianne’s nurses were so compassionate, loving, and comforting. They decorated her bassinet for Juneteenth and shared how blessed she was for being born on the day that they shared and celebrated in African American culture as their collective birthday – Juneteenth – the day of emancipation from slavery.

It was shocking to me that I had not learned about the significance of this day until my daughter was born! How did I not sit in a history class and learn about how Major General Gordon Granger, on June 19, 1865, issued the order proclaiming freedom from slavery in Texas? I had learned all about Abraham Lincoln and the Emancipation Proclamation, but this 2nd proclamation two and a half years later… how did it take so long for that message to arrive?

Imagine that for a moment – Texas, which had until then been a part of Mexico, and then its own republic, and had a constitution that protected slavery – only to be scooped up by the United States and told slavery is now illegal. This all happened within a 24-month period of time. What a confusing, and intensely scary time for an enslaved person in the South. I can’t help but wonder if they had heard news of what was going on. And when General Gordon showed up with over 200 soldiers to help enforce the law, I can only imagine the euphoria they must have felt being able to move about freely, gather together, and begin settling where they wanted and on their own terms. Getting paid for their work and establishing a legacy for their children and their children’s children.

Since I learned about Juneteenth on that Juneteenth day in 1997, I have made sure my kids know the significance of that date. I was delighted when in 2021 President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act to make Juneteenth a recognized federal holiday.

Now, two years later, I sit and type this story to share with you. Beany is going to be 26 this year and I am deeper into my 50s than I’d like to admit, and I am happy to say, I am STILL learning and exploring the truth of our history even now. Depending on where you grew up, in this country or any other, it’s up to you to take a good look at where you came from and what went on. Only then can you really know the reality of a culture and the truth of humanity. If you aren’t learning, you aren’t living!

Dedicated to my daughter, Julianne (Beany) Greenwald

Columbia University – Columbians Share the History and How They Observe the Day