By: O.L./Sway Buckley
Before we lived in New Jersey, we lived in Texas.
Juneteenth was one of those Holidays celebrated in pockets amongst our Texas friends.
Until then, we hadn't heard of it- this was over two decades before it became a national observance. We would listen to native Texans discuss why and how it came about.
We didn't know then that in 1980 Texas became the first state to recognize Juneteenth as an official state holiday.
The stories we heard often left out important reasons why it matters today.
Since then, we've been able to study more over the years.
In short, in case you are unaware of the significance of Juneteenth, here's a synopsis:
On June 19, 1865 — over two years after President Lincoln declared all enslaved persons free — Major General Gordon Granger and Union Army troops marched to Galveston, Texas, to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation and free the last enslaved Black Americans in Texas.
The legal designation of Juneteenth as a federal holiday recognizes a pivotal moment in U.S. history.
Little known Facts to know about Juneteenth:
- It's the eleventh American federal holiday and the first to obtain legal observance as a federal holiday since Martin Luther King Jr. Day was designated in 1983.
- The design of the Juneteenth flag depicts a bursting new star on the horizon. It represents Freedom.
- Although Juneteenth is a clever play on words, the holiday was initially called "Jubilee Day."
- Most states in the U.S. viewed Juneteenth as a holiday before it was federalized.
- June 19 isn't the only anniversary of events that contributed to ending slavery in the U.S.
- Red is the traditional color associated with Juneteenth, symbolizing resilience, sacrifice, and courage. Red clothing or accessories are often worn during celebrations.
- The establishment of Juneteenth as a federal holiday represents a milestone in acknowledging and honoring the struggles and achievements of African Americans throughout U.S. history.
Here's why it matters:
These facts are a great reminder today to reflect on gratitude and walk fully in the freedom given in this country. It may not be perfect, but it's a blessing, and we have limitless opportunities as a result.
Happy Juneteenth, fam!
Here's to living purposefully, powerfully, and profitably in sync,
O.L. & Sway
O.L. is a former banker turned real estate consultant and entrepreneur. Sway is a former CEO of a staffing firm she started on her dorm room floor to pay for college. Together they co-own Marriedpreneur Life Consultancy, equipping faith-based married entrepreneur couples with high-level systems to scale (without strain). They're the creators of the Marriedpreneur Operating Systems and the co-hosts of The Marriedprenuer Life Podcast, which was praised as one of Wedding Wire's top relationship podcasts. Learn more at MarriedpreneurLife.com.