In recent months, following the worldwide protests over police brutality and the tragic deaths of George Floyd, Rayshard Brooks, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and many other African-Americans—the annual Juneteenth holiday has been rejuvenated. Thanks to the Black Lives Matter movement, you have probably already noticed celebrations from both brands and citizens showing support in a variety of ways (more on this below).
Here at Gravitate, we’re taking the opportunity to educate ourselves about this special day that celebrates freedom and provide some helpful ways to get involved. Basically, show you all the same resources and links that we’ve been passing around on Slack for weeks now.
What is Juneteenth?
Our country’s freedom was declared on July 4, 1776—cue the annual fireworks show. But did you know that Black people were not declared free for another 87 freaking years?! Then, it took another two and a half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation for the news to reach the last enslaved people in Galveston, Texas.
The date slavery was truly abolished was June 19, 1865—now celebrated as Juneteenth—the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States.
What are brands doing?
What are people doing?
Some closing words. . .
As the nation rallies and cries for change, Juneteenth can re-energize the Black Lives Matter movement. We’re proud to join in the celebration commemorating the end of slavery in the United States, but recognize that our nation still has a long way to go.
Do your part to show support, educate yourself and those around you about systemic racism, attend vigils, speak out against racism across societal institutions because as we all can see: colossal change is needed in many areas to help create more equality for people of all races, creeds, and colors.
Thanks for listening to us.
