Juneteenth, marking June 19, is a significant holiday that commemorates the liberation of the last enslaved African Americans in the United States.
This pivotal moment occurred in 1865, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation had been enacted.
The day has evolved into a celebration of Black history, culture, and unity, gaining momentum in recent years, particularly after the racial reckoning that followed George Floyd’s murder in 2020.
In that year, numerous private companies recognized the importance of Juneteenth by granting their employees a day off to participate in celebrations.
In 2021, Juneteenth was officially designated as a federal holiday when President Biden signed the legislation, establishing it as the 12th federal holiday in the U.S., the first new designation since Martin Luther King Jr. Day was introduced in 1983.
Concerns have been raised regarding the potential for President Trump, known for his criticism of diversity and inclusion initiatives, to reverse the holiday status of Juneteenth.
However, legal experts clarify that, ultimately, only Congress has the authority to create or abolish federal holidays.
Jessica Levinson, a professor at Loyola Marymount University Law School, stated, “Federal holidays are created and abolished by Congress.
Presidents can make recommendations and sign and veto bills, but they cannot unilaterally create or cancel laws.”
As we approach Juneteenth, Los Angeles is hosting a variety of events to celebrate the holiday.
Among the activities planned are a Juneteenth Freedom Ride biking event in Leimert Park, a panel discussion about reparations for descendants of enslaved African Americans at the California African American Museum, and a celebration of Black women athletes at the Autry Museum.
Additionally, visitors to all national parks and forests will enjoy free admission in observance of the holiday.
Traditional foods associated with Juneteenth often include red-hued items such as watermelon, barbecue, and red velvet cake.
Danielle Dorsey, a colleague at the Los Angeles Times, highlighted differing theories regarding the origin of this culinary tradition.
Some believe it stems from early celebrants utilizing accessible seasonal ingredients that happened to be red.
Others suggest that these foods symbolize the bloodshed and suffering endured by enslaved ancestors.
Melina Abdullah, co-founder of Black Lives Matter-LA, emphasizes the need for a collective space for Black individuals to reconnect and reflect amidst societal chaos.
She stated that the Juneteenth celebration at BLM-LA’s Center for Black Power will be free to the public but exclusively for Black attendees.
This raises a broader question about the role of white individuals in celebrating Juneteenth.
Opinions vary on whether white people should partake in the celebrations.
Activist and writer Anna Gifty Opoku-Agyeman posits that “white people should celebrate this holiday in a way that centers Black Americans.”
Conversely, Abdullah has a more defined perspective, suggesting, “This is not a day for white people to be crashing a Black party and eating our food.”
If white individuals wish to honor the significance of Juneteenth, Abdullah proposes that they do so through reparations, such as donating to Black organizations.
She asserts, “We celebrate our freedom.
It shouldn’t be a time when we have to make everyone else comfortable with that.
This is a specific and particular African American holiday.”
As the day approaches, Los Angeles buzzes with excitement around planned festivities, public discussions, and a reflective celebration of history.
Key themes often circulate around freedom, community, and the acknowledgment of ongoing struggles.
In a broader context, the societal debates surrounding Juneteenth reflect not only on historical injustices but also on current socio-political dynamics.
As America continues to grapple with issues of racial equity and justice, Juneteenth stands as a significant marker of a journey toward freedom and recognition.
Celebrating Juneteenth encompasses a myriad of sentiments, from joy to remembrance, and serves as a call for collective action towards reparations and equality.
It recognizes not just the past but also the ongoing journey toward a more inclusive society.
In recent years, alongside holiday celebrations, discussions about reparations and systemic change have gained traction.
Juneteenth represents a moment to celebrate the progress made yet also to acknowledge the work that remains.
As communities gather to reflect, rejoice, and educate one another about the importance of Juneteenth, it becomes a powerful reminder of both history and hope.
Indeed, the intentionality with which we approach this holiday can lead to deeper conversations and positive changes in the community, fostering unity and understanding in a diverse America.
image source from：latimes
