John Fry’s Post

Today, we observe Juneteenth, a pivotal moment in American history that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. On June 19, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, with the news that the Civil War had ended and that all enslaved people were free—over two years after President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, Jubilee Day, and Liberation Day, has been celebrated formally for only 44 years, originating in Texas and spreading across the country. In 1980, Texas became the first state to recognize it as an official state holiday, and in 2021, Juneteenth was declared a federal holiday. The significance of Juneteenth extends far beyond historical commemoration. It serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and contributions of African Americans and underscores the ongoing fight for racial equality and justice. In today’s world, where issues of racial injustice and inequality are still prevalent, Juneteenth calls us to reflect on the progress we've made and the work that remains. As we honor this day, let’s commit to fostering inclusivity, understanding, and equity in our workplaces and communities. Educate yourself about African American history, support Black-owned businesses, and engage in conversations about race and equality. Together, we can build a more just and inclusive society. Happy Juneteenth! Let’s celebrate freedom and continue to strive for a better future for all. #Juneteenth #FreedomDay #History #Equality #Inclusion #Diversity #Justice

🎉✨ Celebrating Juneteenth: A Journey of Freedom and Resilience ✨🎉 Today, we honor Juneteenth, a pivotal day in American history. On June 19, 1865, news of freedom finally reached Galveston, Texas, marking the end of slavery in the United States—two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth is more than a date on the calendar; it's a symbol of resilience, liberation, and the ongoing fight for equity. It's a day to reflect on the past, recognize our progress, and commit to continuing the work toward justice for all. Let's use this day to: 🔹 Educate: Learn about the rich history and significance of Juneteenth. 🔹 Celebrate: Honor the culture, achievements, and contributions of Black Americans. 🔹 Advocate: Stand together against systemic racism and work towards a future of true equality. From everyone at Children's Place Association, may we draw inspiration from the strength and perseverance of those who fought for freedom and let their legacy guide our steps toward a more inclusive and equitable world. Happy Juneteenth! 🌟✊🏿✊🏾✊🏽 #Juneteenth #FreedomDay #BlackHistory #chicagokids #cpachicagokids #CPAkids #childthrive #positiveimpact #communitysupport #communitystrong #communityimpact #communitypartners #partnerships

Today, we celebrate Juneteenth, a powerful reminder of freedom and resilience. On this day in 1865, the last enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, were finally informed of their emancipation—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth is a testament to the enduring struggle for justice and equality in our nation. As we honor this historic day - our country's second Independence Day - let us reflect on the progress we’ve made and the work that still lies ahead. The fight against systemic racism, discrimination, and inequality continues. We must commit ourselves to building a society where everyone is truly free, equal, and respected. In Congress, I will work tirelessly to: Address systemic racism and promote racial justice.Support policies that uplift Black communities and ensure economic empowerment.Expand access to quality education, healthcare, and housing for all.Fight for criminal justice reform and end mass incarceration.Let's celebrate Juneteenth with action and solidarity. Together, we can create a future where freedom and equality are a reality for everyone. #Juneteenth #FreedomDay #BlackLivesMatter #JusticeForAll #MelissaForCongress

How Much Do You Really Know About Juneteenth? 🤔✨ Did you know that Juneteenth marks a pivotal moment in American history, yet it remains one of the least understood holidays? Today, as we observe Juneteenth, let's delve deeper into its significance and why it's crucial for everyone—not just those it directly commemorates—to honor this day. Juneteenth, officially known as Juneteenth National Independence Day, commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. It specifically marks June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers brought the news of freedom to enslaved Black people in Galveston, Texas—two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Why the delay? Texas, remote and minimally affected by the war, had been slow to implement President Lincoln's orders. The observance of Juneteenth is not just a reflection on past atrocities but a celebration of culture, resilience, and the ongoing journey toward equality. It serves as a stark reminder of the enduring impact of racism and the continuous fight for civil rights, echoing today's movements against racial injustice and inequality. 🌟 What can we, especially those of us who are allies, do to genuinely support and engage with this significant day? Educate yourself, participate in local events, support Black-owned businesses, and take time to reflect on the changes you can champion in your community. Let's use Juneteenth as a stepping stone for ongoing dialogue and action. How will you engage with and celebrate Juneteenth this year? Share your thoughts and plans below. #Juneteenth #FreedomDay #EmancipationDay #HistoryMatters #InclusionMatters #Allyship

🎉✨ Celebrating Juneteenth: A Journey of Freedom and Resilience ✨🎉 Today, we honor Juneteenth, a pivotal day in American history. On June 19, 1865, news of freedom finally reached Galveston, Texas, marking the end of slavery in the United States—two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth is more than a date on the calendar; it's a symbol of resilience, liberation, and the ongoing fight for equity. It's a day to reflect on the past, recognize our progress, and commit to continuing the work toward justice for all. Let's use this day to: 🔹 Educate: Learn about the rich history and significance of Juneteenth. 🔹 Celebrate: Honor the culture, achievements, and contributions of Black Americans. 🔹 Advocate: Stand together against systemic racism and work towards a future of true equality. From everyone at Children's Place Association, may we draw inspiration from the strength and perseverance of those who fought for freedom and let their legacy guide our steps toward a more inclusive and equitable world. Happy Juneteenth! 🌟✊🏿✊🏾✊🏽 #Juneteenth #FreedomDay #BlackHistory #chicagokids #cpachicagokids #CPAkids #childthrive #positiveimpact #communitysupport #communitystrong #communityimpact #communitypartners #partnerships

Today, we honor Juneteenth, a pivotal moment in American history when the last enslaved African Americans were finally emancipated on June 19, 1865, in Galveston, Texas—two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. Juneteenth is not just a celebration of freedom but also a reflection on the resilience, strength, and contributions of Black communities throughout history. It is a time to educate ourselves, acknowledge the ongoing struggles for racial justice, and commit to creating a more equitable society. As we celebrate this significant day, let's remember that the fight for equality and justice continues. It is our collective responsibility to stand against racism, support diverse voices, and ensure that freedom and opportunity are accessible to everyone. Let’s use this day to learn, grow, and actively participate in building a future where everyone is truly free. #Juneteenth #FreedomDay #EqualityForAll #DiversityAndInclusion #HistoryMatters

On June 19th, 1865, Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, bringing news that the Civil War had ended and that enslaved people were now free. This pivotal moment came two and a half years after President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. Today, we commemorate this historic event as Juneteenth, a celebration of freedom, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of equality. Juneteenth is a day to reflect on the progress we've made and acknowledge the work still ahead in achieving true equity and justice. It's a reminder of the strength and perseverance of those who fought for freedom and the importance of continuing their legacy. As we celebrate, let’s honor the contributions and rich cultural heritage of Black Americans, recognizing the vital role they play in shaping our society. In our workplaces and communities, let’s use this day to foster deeper conversations about diversity, equity, and inclusion. Let's commit to actionable steps that support and uplift marginalized voices, ensuring that freedom and opportunity are truly accessible to all. Join me in celebrating Juneteenth and reinforcing our dedication to creating a more just and equitable world. Together, we can honor the past and build a brighter future. #Juneteenth #FreedomDay #Equity #Inclusion #Diversity #SocialJustice

Juneteenth is a significant date in American history, marking our country’s second Independence Day and commemorating the day slavery ended in the United States. On June 19, 1865, Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay, Texas, to assume control of the state and ensure the freedom of all enslaved African Americans. This momentous event occurred approximately 2 years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed by President Abraham Lincoln. Texas was the last state to receive the news of the Emancipation Proclamation. Today Juneteenth signifies freedom, hope in uncertain times, and new beginnings. Commemorating Juneteenth is about honoring the past, celebrating the present, and looking forward to a future of equality and justice. Help commemorate the significance of this day and foster a sense of community and understanding with activities like the ones below. - Attend a local community event. Participate in the parades, festivals, or educational events held in honor of Juneteenth.  - Support Black-owned businesses. Spend the day supporting local Black-owned businesses, restaurants, and artisans, or purchase products online from Black-owned stores.  - Educate yourself. Read books or watch films and documentaries that highlight African American stories, history, and culture.  - Participate in service and advocacy. Volunteer with organizations that support and promote racial justice and equality.     On this Juneteenth, Weston reaffirms our dedication to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. As we commemorate this historic day, we are reminded of the importance of our ongoing efforts to support equality and justice. #Juneteenth #Juneteenth2024

🌟 **Celebrating Juneteenth: A Day of Freedom and Reflection** 🌟 Today, we commemorate Juneteenth, the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, bringing news that the Civil War had ended and that the enslaved were now free—two and a half years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth is a time for reflection, education, and action. It’s an opportunity to honor the resilience and contributions of African Americans throughout history and to recognize the work that still needs to be done to achieve true equality and justice. Here are a few ways we can observe this important day: 📚 Educate Ourselves: Learn about the history of Juneteenth and the ongoing struggles for civil rights. 💼 Support Black-Owned Businesses: Contribute to economic empowerment by supporting Black entrepreneurs and businesses. 📣 Advocate for Change: Get involved in initiatives and policies that promote racial equality and justice. 🧐 Celebrate and Reflect: Participate in community events, celebrations, and take time to reflect on the significance of this day. As we celebrate Juneteenth, let’s commit to fostering a more inclusive and equitable society, where freedom and opportunity are truly available to all. #Juneteenth #FreedomDay #Equality #Diversity #Inclusion #History #BlackExcellence #CelebrateDiversity 🖤❤️💚 --- Feel free to share your reflections and commitments in the comments. How are you celebrating Juneteenth this year?

Juneteenth commemorates the true end of slavery in the U.S. Today, we cherish the liberation achieved, the progress of so many civil rights activists, and the thriving Black communities and culture in our country. We also recognize that freedom is an ongoing pursuit. The work of racial justice remains crucial—especially now, when so much progress is in political or social jeopardy. Alongside our partners, we stand more committed to racial justice than ever. Applying an intersectional lens, we are proud to invest in and learn from the transformational leaders, networks, and solutions working toward justice: racial, social, economic, and environmental. We are in this with you for the long term, listening and collaborating to create lasting change. Together, it’s possible. #juneteenth #racialjustice #socialjustice #socialimpact #communitydrivenchange #springpointpartners