Jessica Larson’s Post

Maybe two years ago while sitting at a rooftop in North Hills, a close friend with a different skintone than me looked around, and whispered in my ear, “North Hills is getting pretty dark, isn’t it?” I was confused. “Yeah the sun is going down, I guess it’s getting late.” He motioned with his eyes, and I realized maybe 50% of the classy rooftop guests had similar skintones to my own. I laughed it off, but it was the first insight I got into how (some) white people, being 60% of the nation’s population, oftentimes don’t feel comfortable in spaces with patrons of darker complexions. In 1865, people in Texas heard the news for the first time that they no longer had to be shackled. Today, Texas has the largest black population, but only at 14% compared to the 12% national average. During slavery, men, women, and children were chained, beaten, starved, and suffered horrible assaults and living conditions. They worked every day under the imprisonment of other families. The average slaved lived to only 21 years old, while the average white person lived twice as long to 40+ years old. Slaverly still continued illegally for a while after 1865. It was not that long ago. Slavery didn’t really end hundreds of years ago. It continued mentally. It is still relevant to how black and brown people whose ancestors were enslaved go about navigating this country. This affects our health, education, standard of living, job search, home-buying and overall income earning potential. There’s also the quiet and insidious bias others may have towards black men and women they don’t even recognize. If you observe this holiday, take inventory of your circle. How often do you interact with and celebrate black and brown men and women for their accomplishments? Do you acknowledge how challenging overcoming slavery must be, even today? Do you make an effort to learn more about cultures different than your own? Do you get uncomfortable if a black person drives a nice car, is at a nice restaurant, or moves into your neighborhood? Do you recognize that if a black American has achieved a high level of success, it may have been much harder to achieve based on our countries recent history of slavery? Today, assess your bias. Learn about your family’s history and the history of your friends. Maybe ask them how you can be a better friend surrounding the topic of race. Ignoring that these things are real and vastly affected Americans is hugely problematic- we must do better as a society and unified country. Black and brown people are resilient, forgiving, loving, intelligent, capable, innovative, and deserving of safe spaces to work, live, grow our families, and thrive! I hope that as time goes on, the small number of 14% of black people in this country grows, as we shed the limiting beliefs historically forced on us, and pursue better resources, education, and jobs.

Today we commemorate a significant moment in American history: when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce the end of slavery two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued by President Abraham Lincoln. This lag in implementation underscores the inherent challenges in the struggle for liberty, making Juneteenth not just a day of celebration but also a reminder of the tireless pursuit of equality and justice. As we celebrate African American resilience and culture, we reflect on the ongoing fight for racial equity and the importance of combating systemic racism. #Juneteenth #ColliersREMSUS

Today, we commemorate #Juneteenth, a pivotal moment in American history that marks the end of slavery. On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the emancipation of all enslaved African Americans—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. This day, also known as "Freedom Day" or "Emancipation Day," celebrates the resilience and perseverance of the African American community in their struggle for freedom and equality. Juneteenth is a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for civil rights and the pursuit of justice for all. It is a day to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who came before us and to renew our commitment to creating a more equitable and inclusive society. As we observe this significant occasion, let us honor the legacy of Juneteenth by embracing its values of self-determination, citizenship, and democracy. Join us in celebrating the progress made while acknowledging the work that still lies ahead. Let us use this day as an opportunity to educate ourselves, engage in meaningful conversations, and continue to strive for a future where true liberty and equality are realized for all.

🇺🇲 Commemorating Juneteenth because it matters...🇺🇲 One of many reasons today’s celebration of Juneteenth is so important would be how 𝗻𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝘂𝘀 𝗶𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗹 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗼𝗳 𝘂𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗳𝗿𝗲𝗲. Each year on June 19th, Americans commemorate the day when Major General Gordon Granger led Union soldiers into Galveston, Texas, where they finally enforced the news that the war had ended and that the enslaved were now free. Despite how many say the emancipation proclamation ended slavery on January 1, 1863, it wasn't until this date, two years later, that American troops were able to make their way through Texas' tricky terrain and, thus, the last of the enslaved people were truly freed. Although it began in 1866 as a political rally to give voting instructions to the Black community, 𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗲𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗵 𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗲𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗿𝘆'𝘀 𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗹𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗕𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗸𝘀. On this date, we celebrate progress. As the fight against systemic racism in America continues, this #Juneteenth holiday carries immense significance for freedom and equality. It is not black versus white but everyone versus racism; together, we can make great strides forward. Happy Juneteenth, a day of recognition, restoration and celebration! Let's reflect on Black Americans' activism and #productivity, pushing our nation toward its founding ideals. #OrganizeForSuccess #PersonalizedProductivity #GetOrganized #MakeEveryMinuteMatter #TogetherEveryoneAchievesMore

Today, we at World Business Chicago honor Juneteenth National Independence Day - commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. On this day in 1865, Union soldiers arrived in Texas, formally announcing freedom to the last enslaved people, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. One hundred and fifty-nine years ago, newly freed individuals faced an uncertain future, yet embraced the chance to pursue better lives for themselves, their families, and future generations. Today, we carry forward that same hope as we strive for a more just and equitable society, acknowledging the persistent challenges ahead. Systemic racism and white supremacy remain deeply rooted in our institutions, and we must continue to protect voting rights and counter laws that disproportionately affect Black communities. Additionally, we must advocate for expanded access to affordable health care and defend our hard-won freedoms against those seeking to undermine them. #Juneteenth #CelebrateFreedom

Today, PE-CXO and FALCON celebrate Juneteenth and recognize its significance in American history. A federal holiday since 2021, Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery. Today, we’re reminded to celebrate progress toward equality and justice, while remembering that there is still work to be done to achieve full equality — in the world of private equity, executive recruiting, and beyond. You can learn more about the holiday in this article from The Washington Post: https://lnkd.in/gmEHBcTp

Today is #Juneteenth, a significant day in American history that marks the end of slavery in the U.S. As we commemorate this holiday, let's remember that the struggle for true equality and justice continues. Today, let's reflect on Juneteenth’s importance, celebrate our nation’s progress, and recognize that much work remains to ensure equality, freedom, and justice for all. Learn more about Juneteenth here: https://lnkd.in/g4EX_uUD

On this day in 1865, a Union General rode into Galveston, Texas, to share the news that the Civil War had ended and slaves had been freed. 🗽 When the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776, slavery still existed in America. It would be 89 more years before slavery would officially end. 📜 Juneteenth is a time to reflect on the resilience, strength, and contributions of Black Americans throughout history. 💪🏿 It's a day to honor the ongoing journey toward freedom, equality, and justice for all. ✊🏾 Let us not forget the significance that today holds in our country. 🇺🇸 #Juneteenth #FreedomDay #BlackHistory #Equality #JusticeForAll #ReflectAndHonor #StrengthAndResilience #HistoricalSignificance #EndOfSlavery #JourneyToJustice #apexgroup #exprealty #portlandhomes #dreamhome #nowpending #realestate #portlandhomes #homesforsale #realtorlife #realestateagent #portlandoregon #portlandrealestate #pdxrealestate #beaverton

Today, we honor Juneteenth, a day that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, bringing the news of freedom to enslaved African Americans—two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth is a time for reflection, education, and celebration. It is a reminder of the resilience and strength of the African American community and an opportunity to recognize the progress made and the work still to be done in the pursuit of equality and justice. Let us: - Educate Ourselves: Learn more about the history of Juneteenth and the contributions of African Americans to our society. - Reflect: Acknowledge the struggles and triumphs of those who fought for freedom and civil rights. - Celebrate: Join in community events, support Black-owned businesses, and share stories of hope and resilience. Happy Juneteenth! Let us honor the past, celebrate the present, and work towards a future of true equality and freedom for all. #Juneteenth #FreedomDay #History

Partners' recognizes today, June 19th as Juneteenth. Juneteenth, also known as “Freedom Day” and “Emancipation Day,” is a significant day in American history. Juneteenth marks the day when federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas in 1865 to take control of the state and ensure that all enslaved people be freed. Going forward, the country now recognizes Juneteenth each year to reflect on our history and commit to doing better. The legacy of Juneteenth illustrates the power of African Americans’ perseverance, strength, resilience, and refusal to give up hope, even in the toughest of times. However, June 19, 1865, did not mark the end of their journey towards achieving freedom, equality, and justice. It was only the beginning. Let us recognize the accomplishments of those who have fought long and hard for civil rights and social justice and acknowledge the work that we must continue to do to address institutional racism and systemic inequality.