Celebrate Juneteenth – Discover 4 ways to show support and solidarity

Today is Juneteenth.

Today, we celebrate the emancipation of slaves in Texas – 155 years ago to the day. While President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation was issued two and a half years prior, and the Civil War had ended in April of that year, it wasn’t until June 19, 1865 in Galveston, TX that Union army general Gordon Granger proclaimed that all slaves in Texas were free.

*Important Note: slavery was still practiced in Delaware and Kentucky until December 18th, 1865, when the 13th amendment to the US constitution was officially adopted.*

As individuals, and as a nation, we need to honor their lives and celebrate that day of freedom.

1. Sign (and share) the petition to make Juneteenth a national holiday. We recognize that this is a small gesture compared to the greater social needs of Black people in America. However, it is a gesture that can remind us of the journey toward freedom, and the work America still has to do. It can help to affirm that Black Lives Matter!
2. Pause and reflect on the arduous journey Black people have endured for centuries, and are still enduring today. Reflect on the last 155 years since June 19, 1865, and the actions that must be taken NOW to ensure social justice and end racism once and for all.  Help increase awareness of Juneteenth by sharing with your friends, family, patients, clients, colleagues, neighbors and networks.
3. Devote your Juneteenth to increasing awareness of Black culture, Black entrepreneurship, and Black business. Support Black owned businesses and restaurants near you: https://www.supportblackowned.com || https://www.eatokra.com/
4. On social media, check out the hashtag #supportblackbusiness to see what other ways you can contribute.