Shine Lab Associates

We specialize in quality collaborative design for positive social change.

Juneteenth: Holding Space for Reflection and Action

Posted by

shinelabassociates

·

As a fledgling organization in the interconnected world of social change, we here at Shine Lab Associates wanted to shine a light on the importance of Juneteenth. So as the two of us are wont to do, we found ourselves asking–what should we say? What can we do? How do we (read: white people) respectfully celebrate this complex holiday? 

We recognize that in many ways, Juneteenth mirrors the dualities we hold in this nation. We celebrate freedom and autonomy, yet must also hold the truth that the hard-fought end to chattel slavery was one step on the path towards a more free and equitable society, one that we are still on today. We tout these values “for all,” yet also recognize that systemic and interpersonal obstacles (Jim Crow, segregation, red-lining, mass incarceration, police brutality, algorithm biases, etc.) that are forcefully held in place to this day for some. And for some, these obstacles have never existed, and they have been able to accumulate financial and social capital, generation after generation, long before and after “all men” were declared free.   

The Bright Idea today is to share some thoughts for other folks (who might not or might be white) that are also trying to do it right (or better!). Understanding the history and significance of Juneteenth is crucial as it heralded a new era where the arc of morality would be long, but with a bend towards justice. With no definitive answers to offer, we humbly suggest….

1) MAKE SPACE FOR REFLECTION

2) TAKE TIME FOR ACTION

Foremost, we must educate ourselves. Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865 where in Galveston, Texas, Union soldiers delivered the news that the Civil War had ended and enslaved people in the Confederate states were now free—two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was declared.

Connect the dots. The realities of systemic racism persist to this day: mass incarceration, voter disenfranchisement, gerrymandering, organizational policies, “zero-tolerance” rules, etc. And while it can be painful or uncomfortable to acknowledge, it is undeniably harmful to us all if we willfully remain ignorant.

Unpack how racism affects society. Following your research, put your thoughts and feelings down in a journal, or make time to discuss ways to address these issues in our personal lives, workplaces, and communities. where black voices are heard and affirmed.

Participate in local events. Many communities host Juneteenth celebrations that are open to all. Joining these events respectfully can be a powerful way to educate yourself, show solidarity, and probably have some fun, too. Look up local chapters of the Poor People’s Campaign, or American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) to find connections.

Support black-owned businesses. Our nation’s foundational system exploited black and brown people to benefit white people, financially and otherwise. Find and contribute to local black-owned businesses, artists, and organizations.

Promote policies that advance racial justice. Beyond celebration, commit to advocating for and implementing policies and practices in your spaces that address racial disparities. From the ballot and boardroom to the classroom and the doctor’s office, there is always something that we can do.

As we mark Juneteenth this year, let us hold these truths to be self-evident, and work towards a future where equity is truly at the center of our societal values. Let’s not only celebrate freedom but also actively participate in the ongoing struggle for racial justice.

In solidarity,

Shine Lab Associates

Additional Resources: