For years I celebrated the 4th of July as a reference to my independence because I wasn’t taught about one of Black History’s most important events, Juneteenth.
Juneteenth honors the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. It commemorates the day when the last enslaved people in the country were informed of their freedom in 1865.
If you were anything like me you didn’t learn about Juneteenth being the official independence day for African Americans until early in your adulthood. In fact,
Juneteenth wasn’t recognized as a federal holiday until 2021.
I believe it should be just as boldly celebrated as the 4th of July, so I’m giving you three ways to plan a successful Juneteenth with you and your loved ones!
Rock Your Culture
Normally, we’re blended into the modernized trends, but just like you’d wear red, white, and blue on July 4th, rep your African culture on Juneteenth!
Free your fros, curls, and locs. Wear your dashikis, gele, scarves, kente cloths, etc. Wherever you choose to celebrate that day, remind the onlookers that you’re Black and proud!
Game Night
It’s time to bring out the grills and fill the air with the smoky-savory aroma of ribs, burgers, and sausages! There’s always a reason to grill and what better excuse than a game night on Juneteenth?
So, gather your loved ones for a night of laughter and a good time! Now you know it’s not game night until you whip out the Spade and dominos table! Along with these traditional games, go ahead and add some new popular games made for the Black community such as Black Card Revoked and Culture Tag.
With Juneteenth falling on a Monday, this will be a good way to ring in a new week!
Support Small Black Businesses
Last, but certainly not least, support black businesses. I’m not talking about the well-known black businesses you already support, but small black businesses you’ve yet discovered.
You’ll be surprised by what goodies you’d come across! However, let’s not make this a one-day thing, but make it a habit to circulate our dollars within our community more.