A time to reflect: Why Juneteenth?

By Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper
AFRO CEO and Publisher

Recently I was asked, “Why do we need Juneteenth? Aren’t Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Black History Month enough?”  

I carefully explained – even though I was disturbed and perturbed by the question– that Juneteenth, MLK Jr. Day and Black History month are distinctly different. It was like asking why we recognize Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Don’t both have something to do with those who served in the Armed Forces? They do, but they are distinctly different and unique. 

The same is true of Juneteenth, which addresses issues and celebrates victories that are not the focus of either MLK Jr. Day or Black History Month. Juneteenth stands on its own in terms of significance. Thus, President Joseph R. Biden had the wisdom and courage to declare Juneteenth a national holiday June 2021. All 50 states and the District of Columbia recognize Juneteenth as a holiday or observance. 

Juneteenth speaks to aspects of American history, particularly African-American history, that are not fully covered by either MLK Jr. Day or Black History Month:

• Juneteenth specifically celebrates the end of slavery in Confederate states that seceded from the Union, an event that has profound historical and emotional significance. It acknowledges the pain of slavery and the joy of freedom in a way that is not the primary focus of MLK Day or Black History Month.
• Juneteenth highlights the fact that the themes of freedom, emancipation and the ongoing fight for civil rights are ever relevant. Juneteenth provides a moment to reflect on past injustices and consider the work that remains to achieve true equality.
• Juneteenth is not just a historical commemoration, but also a cultural celebration. It includes traditions such as community gatherings, music, food and education, enriching the cultural fabric of the nation.
• Juneteenth, MLK Jr. Day and Black History Month each complement each other, together offering a more comprehensive understanding and appreciation of African-American history and contributions.

Having Juneteenth as a recognized holiday alongside MLK Jr. Day and Black History Month ensures that the full scope of African-American history and the quest for freedom and equality are acknowledged and celebrated. 

As frequent AFRO contributor,  Dr. Karsonya Wise Whitehead wrote in a 2022 commentary, “Even though the Emancipation Proclamation did not legally end slavery (that did not happen until Dec. 6, 1865, with the ratification of the 13th Amendment), Black people have used that moment and every moment since then to make America live up to its creed to be both the home of the brave and the home of the free. 

Even though true freedom has yet to arrive, we recognize Juneteenth as a day of celebration, education and agitation. We mark this occasion with tears and with joy because we understand that we were not supposed to survive, but we did.” 

It is with this understanding, that we produced this special edition highlighting the importance of Juneteenth and passing down Black traditions, five ways to honor the ancestors and Juneteenth books for young readers and teens. 

Thanks to our advertisers, sponsors and AFRO Team members who contributed to this edition. 

We want to congratulate our AFRO Juneteenth breakfast honorees, Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Dr. Thelma T. Daley, Bobby Henry Sr. and the Root Branch Media Group. I would also like to extend a warm welcome to the leadership and members of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) who open their national convention in Baltimore on June 19. 

Happy Juneteenth! 

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