Juneteenth is not merely a date on the calendar; it is a transformative reminder of how resilience and hope have shaped our collective history. On June 19, 1865, in Galveston, Texas, Union General Gordon Granger through welcoming waters and upon galloping horses announced the emancipation of enslaved African Americans—General Order No. 3—a belated decree that changed lives forever. For me, Juneteenth resonates as a personal journey of survival and triumph. I reflect on our past; I see a tapestry of faith and determination woven through every act of resilience.
Journey of Freedom This journey is one of layered liberation—of those who freed people and those who freed their souls. The resilience of enslaved individuals, who waited years to learn that bondage had ended, stands as a testament to the strength of the human spirit. I recall the stirring words of Ella Baker, “We who believe in freedom cannot rest.” Her call continues to inspire activists, community leaders, and anyone committed to honoring the past while forging a better future. My soul looks back in wonder at the legacy of those who endured, and the courage of those who fought ensures freedom’s gaze in Juneteenth and Freedom Day.
The Historic Spark of Jubilee Day Integral to the modern recognition of Juneteenth is Opal Lee—a community leader whose unwavering spirit revitalized this celebration. Her activism meant long walks—journeys to the nation’s capital in pursuit of greater recognition for Juneteenth, a day already honored in Texas. Known as the “grandmother of Juneteenth,” Opal Lee’s persistent advocacy led to the signing of Juneteenth into the national consciousness on June 17, 2021. Like a spark igniting a flame, her story symbolizes both the price and promise of freedom. My soul looks back in wonder at the sacrifices of an ancestral past, urging us to honor them while standing on the precipice of progress.
The Red. White. Blue. Star. Arc. Symbolism of the Juneteenth flag is as profound as the history it commemorates. With every flutter and wave its red, white, and blue hues serve as a visual metaphor for resilience, sacrifice, and hope that burst forth in every celebration. Texas boasts big stars, and the Juneteenth flag is no exception. The blue signifies the expansiveness of the future, the red represents the bloodshed in the fight for liberation, and the white stands for the unity. Oftentimes intertwined with this narrative is the Pan-African flag—a symbol of Black pride and unity with its iconic red, black, green and gold palette. Each color, whether on the Juneteenth flag or the Pan-African banner, reminds us that our freedom is hard-won and must be safeguarded.
Collective Action, and Community Celebration Across American history generational activists have paved the way for enduring social change, voicing their dreams from grassroots gatherings in Texas to national forums and museums. Our community events—from poetry readings to street festivals to galas—feature red-colored foods like strawberry sodas, red velvet cakes, watermelon, BBQ, and more. These elements celebrate red as a symbol of liberation and sweetness, inviting celebrants to savor with every bite.
This Juneteenth, our own contributor, writer and poet Raen Parker Washington will travel across state lines to host events that culminate in community poems—a tribute to cultural preservation.
My soul looks back in wonder recalling last year’s gathering when diverse voices united in poetry to honor red and freedom. I invite you to join a Juneteenth celebration that honors the past and shapes our shared future. Discover Juneteenth events in the Upstate.
As a final offering, enjoy a virtual slice of red velvet—a taste of last year’s original community poem, rich with the spirit of reflection.
Roses are red. And rubies are, too, and so is freedom.
Red for resilience, courage and a force to be reckoned with.
Red is a grandson’s favorite color.
Brazilian dirt color of my favorite person’s hair
Freedom is not free until you find freedom for yourself.
We yearn for ripen variance and strawberries.
We dream, America.