By Alexis Shoats
There are a few parts of Juneteenth we all knew would happen once it officially became a federal holiday. Time off from work and the commercialization of the holiday. Although it has only been 3 years since it was signed into law by President Biden, Black people are fed up with the way it is being celebrated by businesses, employers, organizations, and even friends. There is little to no regard for education and understanding of what the holiday truly means and the role of non-black people on this day. So let’s talk about it.
1. It is not a day off for white America
This should be a day that you dive into literature, participate in public events catered to furthering the education of African American history, or volunteer with a local organization that focuses on eradicating issues in Black communities.
2. Stop the commercialization
Juneteenth commemorative ice cream and party supplies? This is just disrespectful. There are so many ways brands and companies can become real allies and that starts with pledging time, money, and resources to organizations on the ground. These organizations vary from providing economic opportunities to providing healthcare in predominantly Black communities.
3. Amplify Black Voices
Speak up for Black coworkers in the workplace, call out injustice when you see it, and buy Black Owned items as well as partner with Black Owned small businesses. Utilizing your privilege to further Black voices is a crucial piece of bridging the gap of equality.
4. Other minorities, we need your help as well
Black Americans are often the first people to speak up and stand alongside other minorities in this fight for equality, however, this isn’t always reciprocated. Thinking that your fight does not intersect with the black struggle is inaccurate, and this mindset furthers racial prejudices toward Black people. This must change, and I encourage you to do a bit of reading surrounding various historical movements and BIPOC leaders such as James Baldwin, Cesar Chavez and the Black Panthers allyship, and Grace Lee Boggs to name a few.
Powerful !