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As we reflect on the history of Memorial Day, it's essential to remember the profound impact of Black Americans in shaping this tradition. In 1996, historian David W. Blight unearthed a poignant piece of history in the archives of Howard University. He discovered that on May 1, 1865, freed Black slaves and white missionaries in Charleston, South Carolina, organized one of the earliest Memorial Day commemorations. This event, held at a former Confederate racetrack where over 250 Union soldiers had died and were buried in unmarked graves, was a powerful act of honor and remembrance. Black Charlestonians reburied these fallen soldiers, built a fence around the graves, and named the site "Martyrs of the Race Course." On the day of the commemoration, nearly 10,000 people, mostly Black, gathered to sing, pray, and honor the Union soldiers who fought for their freedom. Blight, in his 2001 book *Race and Reunion: The Civil War in American Memory*, highlights this event as a foundational moment for what would become Memorial Day. This history underscores the critical role that African Americans have played in the preservation and creation of American traditions. For Black federal government employees today, this legacy is a reminder of the enduring contributions of our ancestors to the nation's fabric. As we continue to serve our country in various capacities, let us draw inspiration from the resilience and dedication of those who came before us. They not only fought for freedom but also established traditions of remembrance that bind us together as a nation. In honoring their legacy, we honor ourselves and the ongoing commitment to justice and equality. This Memorial Day, let's remember the roots of this sacred day and the invaluable contributions of Black Americans to our national story. #MemorialDay #BlackHistory #FederalWorkforce #DavidWBlight #HonorAndRemember #LegacyOfService #blackofficeunlocked #stayunlocked

Today—Wednesday, June 19th—is Juneteenth, the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. On this day in 1865 (two years after the passing of the 1863 Emancipation Proclamation), Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, TX with the news that the Civil War had ended and that enslaved people of Texas were now free. While initially celebrated only in Texas and by the Black community, Juneteenth became a federally recognized holiday in 2021. As we celebrate Juneteenth and honor the delayed freedom of enslaved Black people in the United States, it is important to hold space for and keep in mind the full Black experience in this country. Despite the 13th Amendment, white supremacy and systemic racism thrives in this country and has been cemented in place by centuries of government policy that have taken a sledgehammer at Black families and their autonomy. We have a collective responsibility to facilitate and rally for change to harmful systems and policies that surveil and control Black and Brown children, youth, and families. (CC: Leonard Burton) #juneteenth #blacklivesmatter #blm #blackhistory #juneteenthcelebration #freedom #love #familyautonomy #economicjustice #healthjustice #systemicracism

Today, we honor Juneteenth, a significant milestone in American history. On June 19, 1865, enslaved African Americans in Texas were informed of their freedom, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. This day represents the end of slavery in the United States and is a powerful reminder of the ever-enduring need to continue to fight for equality and justice. To learn more about the history behind Juneteenth, check out this article by the NYTimes here! #Juneteenth #NewYorkTimes

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, is a day dedicated to commemorating the liberation of enslaved Black people from slavery in the United States. Learn more here: https://lnkd.in/gwqu7264

Today, we celebrate Juneteenth, a day commemorating the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States. On June 19th, 1865, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, announcing the end of slavery. Though the Emancipation Proclamation was issued two and a half years prior, news traveled slowly, and for many enslaved people, Juneteenth marked their true liberation. Juneteenth is a celebration of: ✨Freedom: A day to honor the end of a dark chapter in American history. ✨Resilience: A testament to the strength and perseverance of the Black community. ✨Unity: A time to come together and celebrate Black culture and heritage. How will you celebrate Juneteenth? #Juneteenth #BlackHistoryMonth #FreedomDay #CelebrateFreedom

There were black/brown indigenous people all over today’s Europe/‘western world’ (e.g. the black aboriginal australians & native indians in america). They were systematically erased from world’s history over time. I am not arguing for the supremacy of one race over another. Race is a man-made concept. I am an advocate for a world that embraces people of all colors as equal humans. Let’s look for commonalities instead of fixating on differences. The injustices of the past can never be repatraited for enough. However, the least History can do is to get its facts right. Don’t try to act like black people were savages with no history beyond slavery, poverty and oppression. What is history afraid of?? That if we understand and accept the evidence that all humans share a common African ancestry and that ancient civilizations across the world have African origins, the narratives of white superiority that have been used to oppress and marginalize Africans globally will be undermined? Why is an inclusive future a threat? It’s not even about wealth/income - because Africa is bursting off her seams with indigenous wealth. It’s about power and privilege. The fear of losing power and privilege is what has fuelled a vile system of oppression for years.

Today, we observe Juneteenth, honoring and acknowledging crucial strides in American history. We can use today to reflect on the pursuit of freedom in the past, present, and future. #juneteenth #juneteenth2024

What is Juneteenth? How can you honor this holiday? What can you do in your community? Learn more below ↘️

As we continue to observe Black History Month, on Day 6, I would like to draw attention to a significant historical moment narrated brilliantly in "Island on Fire: The Revolt That Ended Slavery in the British Empire" by Tom Zoellner. This extensively researched book offers a detailed account of the 1831 slave rebellion in Jamaica, which was a pivotal event in bringing an end to slavery across the British Empire. "Island on Fire" not only chronicles the events of the rebellion but also delves into its causes and aftermath, offering insights into the resilience and bravery of those who fought for their freedom. Zoellner's account brings to life the stories of individuals involved, from the enslaved people who risked their lives to the plantation owners who opposed their efforts, providing readers with a nuanced understanding of this complicated chapter in history. Let us take this opportunity to honor the bravery of those who paved the way for freedom and continue to inspire the fight for justice today. #BlackHistoryMonth #IslandOnFire #FightForFreedom #Abolition #HumanRights #HistoricalReflection

On January 1, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln delivered his Emancipation Proclamation, proclaiming the end of chattel slavery in the United States. In practice, however, slavery continued to be practiced throughout the Confederacy as the American Civil War waged on. Actual emancipation largely relied on the advance of the Union Army to enforce the proclamation. Over two years later, Union Army General Gordon Granger and his troops advanced on Texas, the last stronghold of institutional slavery in the United States. On June 19th, 1865, General Granger issued General Order No. 3, informing the people of Texas that all slaves were to be immediately set free. The enforcement of this order officially marked the end of slavery in the United States, and this event is commemorated by the holiday Juneteenth. Today, 157 years later, we celebrate Juneteenth as a defining moment in American History. While it marks the end of slavery in the United States, Black Americans still face systemic discrimination, racism, and injustice in many aspects of daily life. Juneteenth reminds us of the urgent need for justice and the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion. JLD is proud to celebrate Juneteenth and to continue to promote these ideals in our practice. #Juneteenth #AmericanHistory #FreedomDay #BlackHistory #CelebrateFreedom #JusticeForAll #JLDProud #CommemorateJuneteenth #JLDCostConsulting