The hype of Juneteenth Celebrations, you asked?

See, Juneteenth for what seems like decades has been celebrated by African American communities for quite some time. Some call it Freedom Day, A day of Jubilee, or Emancipation Day. It was first celebrated back on June 19, 1865, in Texas. Records show that the anniversary a year later was when it was truly celebrated due to the word not being spread until about 2 years later. Think about it, this was an age where there were no phones, probably no true mail carrier or system, and things probably took decades to get received. For over 400 years, Africans were enslaved and stolen from their land. Forced to live in a new culture and forget their own. It is the history of African Americans and so many people want to dilute it or make it seem lighter than it really is. Many did not make the journey and many died. The celebration of Juneteenth reminds us of the day our ancestors were set free but it was still years later than we were told. Even upon being told, it was not like we were completely free. Many continued to live the same life because they did not have anywhere to go.

All throughout the history of African Americans here in America, we still to this day have many improvements to make. We are still attacked and disliked by many but at the same time, we must look at those who are really changing the narrative of our culture. (and for the positive, I must add). Yes, our culture is diverse. We have some that are successful through education and some who have chosen other routes to success such as Fame and other ways I’d rather not discuss nor acknowledge. Nevertheless, we are showing America that we too are worthy of having a place here.

Being in a corporate work setting, it really amazes me just how much others do not know about our history or our culture. It fascinates me to see a clear look of confusion or misunderstanding. Instead of laughing or being ashamed, I find the light in informing those full of confusion about our culture and why we are as strong as we are. The culture of our heritage is full of strength, power, and perseverance. We have the drive to push, continue, do something and most importantly, change the doggone narrative. I am so tired of seeing videos portraying African Americans as a race full of anger, drugs, and crime. We need to see more of our success stories shared instead of the latter. I understand fully that this is a dream that I am just sharing but there are way too many stories of success that are often overlooked for the troubled household or the life of crime that seems to dwell within our race. I cannot speak for others and yes, this is one of the most controversial topics I have addressed but to me, this needs to be discussed. We are still experiencing economic inequality 140 years after the passage of the 13th Amendment. How and why is this even possible?

We must work together and stop tearing each other down. Live a life of unity, community, and encouragement for one another. Celebrating each other for all they have accomplished and stop speaking ill of one another. Our mouths have the power to speak life or death and when we speak soo negatively about one another, we are just speaking death into our Community.

Do me a favor, next time you have the opportunity to make a difference, do so. Whether it’s a head nod in the store to say hello in passing by or volunteering to help our youth with homework or being a mentor. Our young generation needs us and if we are not there for them, our culture may drastically change and die. Share stories of positivity in the African American community every chance you get. This is the only way to change the narrative. Share stories of the love, hope, strength, resilience, and pride that we have for our culture.

The message of Juneteenth you ask?

It is the power of African Americans and their perseverance, strength, resilience, and refusal to give up hope even in the most difficult and painful times.