Each year on Juneteenth we reflect on the historical and cultural significance of this holiday. This year, we have even more reason to celebrate as Congress passes a bill to make Juneteenth a federally recognized holiday: Juneteenth National Independence Day. Memorializing this significant moment in history carries a symbolic message. It shows that our nation acknowledges the darker truths of the past and celebrates the progress we have made.
Acknowledgment is only the first step. Though Juneteenth has been a widely observed holiday within the Black community, we hold a responsibility to create broader recognition and understanding across our nation. As we look to our national leaders to implement equitable policies, there must also be an individual effort to create change at a societal level. Take time to educate yourself on the history of Black and other minority communities, evaluate your allyship journey, and take action to get involved.
Remember that being involved can mean donating to organizations committed to Diversity & Inclusion initiatives, sharing information with others, speaking out against unfair practices, and voting in congressional, state, and local elections.
Please take some time to watch this informative video created by one of AvePoint’s Employee Resource Groups, Black AvePoint Excellence (B.A.E.) as we celebrate Juneteenth and the anniversary of all our ERGs.
Additional Resources:
- Juneteenth: Fact Sheet
- Code Switch: NPR
- Anti-Racism Project
- “How Studying Privilege Systems Can Strengthen Compassion”: Peggy McIntosh at TEDxTimberlaneSchools
