Juneteenth: A Call to Action for Communications Professionals
On June 19th, we commemorate Juneteenth, a pivotal day in American history that marks the end of slavery and symbolizes the ongoing struggle for freedom, justice, and equality. As communications professionals, we have a unique responsibility and opportunity to honor this day and contribute to its enduring message.
Juneteenth traces its origins to June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, bringing the long-overdue news that all enslaved people were free - a full two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation. This day represents not just the end of slavery, but the beginning of a long journey towards true equality - a journey that continues to this day.
In our current climate, where hard-won progress towards equality and respect for all is increasingly under threat, the significance of Juneteenth resonates more powerfully than ever. It serves as a stark reminder that the work of liberation is far from over, and that we all have a role to play in advancing equity and justice.
As storytellers and influencers, we in the communications field have the power to shape narratives and drive change. Here's how we can honor Juneteenth in our work:
Educate: Share the history and significance of Juneteenth with your audiences. Highlight Black American voices, experiences, and contributions. Emphasize that while Juneteenth is a pivotal moment in Black history, it is very much a part of American history as a whole.
Advocate: Use your platforms to support racial justice initiatives. Amplify Black American led organizations working towards equity and encourage action through donations, volunteerism, and activism.
Reflect: Examine your own work and organizational practices. Ensure your content and culture are inclusive, representative, and respectful of all individuals. Commit to ongoing learning and improvement.
As we engage in this work, we must remember the words of Audre Lorde: "Without community, there is no liberation, only the most vulnerable and temporary armistice between an individual and her oppression." Juneteenth reminds us that the struggle for freedom is a collective effort. We must stand together, support each other, and work towards our common goal of true equality.
In honoring Juneteenth, we must also acknowledge the critical role Black women have played in liberation movements. From Opal Lee, whose tireless efforts were instrumental in making Juneteenth a federal holiday, to countless others who have led the charge for equality, Black women have been at the forefront of change. As communications professionals, we have a responsibility to amplify these voices and ensure their stories are heard.
At PR Girl Manifesto, Juneteenth serves as a powerful reminder of our commitment to advancing equity in all that we do. We see it as an opportunity to reaffirm our dedication to using our platform for positive change, to amplify historically excluded voices, and to contribute to the ongoing work of creating a more just and equitable society.
This Juneteenth, we call on all communications professionals to recommit themselves to the ongoing work of liberation. We have the power to educate, to advocate, and to shape a more just and equitable future. Let's use that power wisely and purposefully.
How will you honor Juneteenth in your work? We encourage you to reflect on this question and share your ideas and commitments.
