Recognizing Juneteenth With BLACK at Intuitive

For the second year in row, the BLACK at Intuitive employee resource group will recognize Juneteenth with a team summit to develop a strategy for the upcoming year, participate in professional development, and strengthen community and connection among members. Juneteenth was established as a federal holiday in 2021 (and its now an Intuitive holiday) to commemorate the effective end of slavery in the U.S. It marks the day in 1865 when federal troops arrived in Texas to ensure that slaves were freed, two and a half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation.

We recently asked several members of BLACK at Intuitive how they honor Juneteenth in their communities and what it means to them:

Marcus Johnson, Clinical Sales Manager and BLACK at Intuitive Chair

“For me, Juneteenth is rooted in the recognition of the lives of those enslaved Africans and African Americans who endured and survived the unspeakable mental, emotional, and physical horrors of slavery. Even during it all, each enslaved person carried with them the hope that this world would bring a better tomorrow for both current and future generations. As Juneteenth became a national holiday, it cemented the day for my generation, as a reminder of both the sacrifices of our ancestors but also the beauty that exists in our own limitless future.”

Alysa Hadley, Inclusion & Diversity Specialist

"Juneteenth is important to me because it recognizes and celebrates the grit, perseverance, and strength of Black Americans. For me, Juneteenth is about celebrating Black joy and liberation. Taking part in community celebrations is my favorite way to mark the occasion, reminding me of our collective strength.”

Johnathan McGriff, Clinical Sales Representative

"Juneteenth is a time of reflection for me and my family. We take time to acknowledge our ancestors who endured and those who paid the ultimate price fighting for freedom through the unimaginable era of slavery. My wife and I use this day as a teaching moment to ensure that our two boys, Johnathan and Justice, understand that they stand on the shoulders of giants and that they have a mandated responsibility to always have a sense of love for all mankind and community for all. Juneteenth is a day of hope and optimism. I carry a lot of pride as a BLACK at Intuitive Ambassador, knowing that this company deems this holiday as a moment to pause and recognize it as an American holiday that we all can learn from.”