Juneteenth: Your Thoughts

[Simone]

What is Juneteenth?

For folks in The North Pacific who are not from the United States, this may be an unfamiliar holiday - in fact, it only became a Federal holiday in the USA in 2021. But it has a long history. Here's a quick summary, courtesy of Wikipedia:

Juneteenth, officially Juneteenth National Independence Day, is a federal holiday in the United States. It is celebrated annually on June 19 to commemorate the ending of slavery in the United States. The holiday's name is a portmanteau of the words "June" and "nineteenth", as it was on June 19, 1865, when Major General Gordon Granger ordered the final enforcement of the Emancipation Proclamation in Texas at the end of the American Civil War.

We have decided to invite our friends across the United States and elsewhere to participate in our discussion on Juneteenth and what it means to them. This will be a moderated discussion. For timezone and weekend(s) etc., and other timing reasons, this discussion will run until the end of the month.

TNP Roleplay Juneteeth flag
Courtesy @Prydania

 

[Simone]

Simone's brief remarks

Juneteenth, commemorating the end of slavery in the United States, holds global significance as it symbolizes the universal struggle for freedom and human rights. While it is a day rooted in American history, we believe its message resonates beyond borders, serving as a reminder of the enduring fight against oppression and inequality.

For non-Americans, Juneteenth can be a moment to reflect on their own histories and the ongoing pursuit of social justice in their own nations. The recognition of Juneteenth by organizations in various countries underscores its importance as a symbol of liberation and the shared human aspiration for dignity and respect.

 

[Simone]

(Space reserved for guest discussions)