01, Jul 2021

5 Ways to Celebrate Juneteenth

The legacy of celebrating Juneteenth comes from a background of several events that took place during Abraham Lincoln’s rule. It was September 22nd, 1862, when President Abraham issued the Emancipation Proclamation. This law was all about outlawing slavery, and it started by setting free slaves in ten states of America. Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation formally, following the January of 1863. Two years since the release of the proclamation, it became effective on June 19th, 1865, when African-Americans in Texas were freed from slavery.
 
In 1980, Texas was the first state to make June 19th JUNETEENTH a public holiday. Taking the lead of Texas, about 45 more states also followed by and declared Juneteenth a national holiday.
 
This holiday isn’t solely dedicated to glorifying the release of African-Americans from the cruel custom of slavery. It is also about celebrating the first steps towards letting black people get their rights as citizens. If you are wondering how to celebrate the spirit of Juneteenth, here are a few suggestions for how you can do your part to promote and uphold the rights of the black community in America.
 

1. Promote Black-Owned Businesses

If you’re out in the market to shop, make it a practice to purchase something (no matter how minor or expensive) from black-owned businesses.
 
The only way you can promote black-owned businesses is leading by example – purchase something from them and telling others to do the same.
 

2. Give Back to the Black Community

One of the best ways to celebrate a holiday is by reminding ourselves that we’re also doing our bit for a great cause. You can celebrate Juneteenth by giving back to the black community. Help can be in any form, be it financial or physical support.
 
Numerous non-profit organizations are working for the betterment of black communities with their limited resources. Juneteenth is the right time to make a difference by donating and showing your concern and connection.
 
If you can’t or don’t want to give back in financial terms, you can also contribute to the cause by volunteering. Many rallies and parades take place on June 19th. You can lend your hand and assist them.
 

3. Host a Backyard BBQ Party

What can be a better day to connect with your family and old friends than a good old-fashioned barbeque party in the backyard?
 
Take this holiday as an opportunity to bond with friends you haven’t seen in a while. Host a barbeque party in your backyard and bring people together. It isn’t essential to have a huge party. Even a small gathering with close family and friends would also serve the purpose of celebrating Juneteenth.
 

4. Pick up a good book

Educate yourself with the seminal events that led to Juneteenth. The good news is that you can dive right in and learn about history with well-researched books by black authors.
 
If books aren’t your thing, you can also listen to black artists or hear audiobooks to brush up on your history.
 
The deeper you dive, the more will you explore and learn. This way, you can also educate the people around you by sharing the information you have learned.
 

5. Visit a Museum Fostering Black Culture

Last but not least, if you want to make Juneteenth day memorable and worthwhile, gather a group of friends to visit a museum or a historical site that celebrates black culture. Engulf yourself in the art and culture of African-Americans.
 
Make a list of historic sites that hold immense significance for the black community and explore them with a bunch of your favourite people. Who knows, we might all learn something new and invaluable in the process.
 

Conclusion

 
Juneteenth is a significant public holiday with a purpose. It serves as a reminder of the struggle for equal rights for the black community and how far things have come along. This holiday is all about praising the black culture, learning about their history and lifestyle, and admiring those who sacrificed whatever they had for the sake of freedom. It is also about working towards a more equal and egalitarian future for us all.
 
Be sure to celebrate it eagerly and passionately with your family and friends.