The name “Juneteenth” is a combination of “June” and “nineteenth.” It signifies the date on which Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston and issued General Order No. 3, officially commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans.
Juneteenth is a day to remember the millions who suffered in slavery, honor their strength and resilience, and commit ourselves to building a more just and equitable society for all.
Kamala Harris
What It Is and Why It Matters
National Recognition: Juneteenth gained national recognition when it was made a federal holiday in the United States on June 17, 2021. This recognition marked an important milestone in acknowledging the significance of Juneteenth and its ongoing relevance in promoting racial equality and justice.
Education and Awareness: Juneteenth serves as an educational platform to raise awareness about the history of slavery, the struggle for freedom, and ongoing efforts for racial justice. It encourages dialogue, learning, and understanding across generations, promoting empathy and social change.
Inspiration for Progress: Juneteenth inspires individuals to continue working towards a more equitable and inclusive society. It reminds us of the power of collective action, the resilience of marginalized communities, and the importance of striving for a future where all individuals are treated with dignity and equality.
Honoring Juneteenth as an Employer
“Juneteenth should be recognized and celebrated as a day of freedom, unity, and progress. It’s an opportunity to reflect on our shared history, acknowledge the ongoing struggles for racial justice, and reaffirm our commitment to equality.”
– Cory Booker
It’s important to honor Juneteenth at work as an employer because it acknowledges and commemorates a significant milestone in the fight for racial equality. By recognizing this day, you demonstrate your commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, while fostering a sense of belonging and respect among your employees.
Celebrating Juneteenth in the Workplace
Organize educational sessions to increase awareness about its historical significance, host cultural events and activities, and encourage employee participation in community initiatives that support racial justice. Providing paid time off or allowing flexible schedules to commemorate Juneteenth demonstrates your company’s commitment to recognizing and honoring this important day in the United States.
Fostering a Culture of DEI in the Workplace
This can be achieved by implementing fair hiring practices, promoting diverse representation in leadership positions, providing diversity training and resources, actively listening to employee voices, and regularly evaluating policies and practices to identify and address any systemic biases that may exist. Creating an inclusive work culture helps attract and retain top talent, encourages innovation, and enhances overall employee satisfaction and well-being.
Learn more about IntouchCX’s commitment to DEI and fostering an inclusive workplace culture through our latest well-being infographic.
Library of Congress – The Library of Congress provides a wealth of primary sources, historical documents, and research materials related to Juneteenth and African American history.
IntouchCX Team
