Sonia Shavers-Jenkins, OD Coach, SHRM-CP, ACC, NBC-HWC’s Post

Today, we commemorate Juneteenth, a day of profound significance for Black Americans and a moment to reflect on the journey toward freedom and equality. On June 19, 1865, the last enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, were finally informed of their liberation—over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. This day symbolizes the end of slavery in the United States and serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience and strength of the Black community. As a Black Canadian, I recognize the shared history and struggle against systemic racism that transcends borders. Juneteenth is not just an American holiday but a reminder of the global fight for justice and equity. Recognition of Juneteenth is vital, not only as a celebration of freedom but also as an acknowledgment of our ongoing challenges. Despite the progress made since June 19, 1865, we must be cautious and aware of the civil rights and anti-racism initiatives that are being rolled back. The fight for true equality and justice is far from over. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs, essential for fostering inclusive environments, face significant challenges. This pushback underscores the need for continued vigilance and advocacy. A holiday and a designated month are not sufficient to rectify nearly 250 years of slavery and an additional 138 years of racial discrimination. The scars of this history run deep, affecting generations. However, honouring Juneteenth and acknowledging our collective past can inspire change and pave the way for a more just future. Let us use this day to recommit ourselves to dismantling systemic racism and promoting equity in all aspects of society. We must continue to advocate for policies that protect and uplift marginalized communities, ensuring that the progress we have fought so hard for is not eroded. Today, we celebrate freedom and resilience. We honour those who came before us and those who continue to fight for justice. Together, we can create a future where equality is not just an aspiration but a reality.  #Juneteenth #BlackHistory #DEI #Equality #Justice #HopeForTheFuture

Celebrating Juneteenth: Honoring Freedom and Progress Today, we commemorate Juneteenth, a significant milestone in American history marking the end of slavery in the United States. On June 19, 1865, news of the Emancipation Proclamation finally reached Galveston, Texas, freeing the last enslaved African Americans. This day stands as a powerful reminder of the journey toward freedom and equality, and a call to continue striving for justice and inclusivity in our society. As we celebrate Juneteenth, let's honor the resilience, strength, and contributions of Black Americans. This day is not just about reflecting on the past but also about recognizing the ongoing efforts to achieve true equality and dismantle systemic racism. Let's make Juneteenth a day of celebration, education, and commitment to a more equitable future for all. Together, we can honor the legacy of those who fought for freedom and continue their work to create a better world. #Juneteenth #FreedomDay #Equality #DiversityAndInclusion #CelebrateHistory

🌟✊ Reflecting on Juneteenth ✊🌟 Today we paused to honor and commemorate this pivotal moment in history. June 19th is not merely a date on the calendar, but rather a testament to the resilience, courage, and unwavering spirit of those who fought for freedom and equality. At #WardLawLLC, we stand in solidarity with our community to reflect on the significance of Juneteenth. It's a time to acknowledge the progress we've made, while also recognizing the ongoing journey toward true justice and equality. In observance of Juneteenth, our offices are closed as we create space for reflection, education, and action. We encourage everyone to take this opportunity to deepen their understanding of the struggles and triumphs of the Black community, and to consider how we can all contribute to a more just and equitable society. Join us in honoring Juneteenth by amplifying Black voices, supporting Black-owned businesses, and advocating for meaningful change. Together, let's continue the march toward freedom, equality, and justice for all. #WardLawLLC #straightforwardlegaladvice #Juneteenth #FreedomDay #Equality #Justice #BlackLivesMatter #Community #Reflection #Action  

Happy Juneteenth! Today, we celebrate Juneteenth, a day commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. On June 19th, 1865, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce the end of slavery, though it had been abolished two years prior by the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth is a day of reflection, education, and celebration. It's a reminder of the ongoing fight for racial equality and a call to action to continue building a more just and inclusive society. Here are some ways you can celebrate Juneteenth: ❤️ Learn about the history of Juneteenth. There are many resources available online and in libraries. 💚Support Black-owned businesses. This is a great way to celebrate Black culture and contribute to the economic empowerment of the Black community. 🖤Attend a Juneteenth celebration. Many communities host festivals, parades, and other events to commemorate this important day. 🤎Educate others about Juneteenth. Share information about the holiday with your colleagues, friends, and family. Let's use this day to celebrate freedom, recognize the ongoing struggle for equality, and commit to building a brighter future for all. #Juneteenth #BlackHistory #FreedomDay

Commemorating Juneteenth: Today, we honor the significance of Juneteenth, a day that marks the end of slavery in the United States. This momentous occasion, though belated, represents a crucial step towards equality and justice for all Americans. Juneteenth serves as a reminder of the resilience, strength, and perseverance of the Black community. It is a day to reflect on the struggles and triumphs of those who have fought tirelessly for freedom and equality. As we celebrate Juneteenth, let us recommit ourselves to the ongoing fight against racism and injustice in all its forms. Together, we can strive to build a more equitable and inclusive society for future generations. #xaviermission #juneteenth

🌟 Honoring Juneteenth: A Celebration of Freedom 🌟 Today, on Juneteenth, we commemorate the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. Dating back to June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, with news that the Civil War had ended and that enslaved individuals were now free, Juneteenth represents a pivotal moment in American history. This day serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of the Black community in their struggle for freedom and equality. It also underscores the importance of continuing our journey toward justice and inclusivity for all. As we observe Juneteenth, let us reflect on the progress we've made and recommit ourselves to building a future where every individual is treated with dignity and respect. It's a time to celebrate, educate, and advocate for a more just and equitable society. #Juneteenth #FreedomDay #Equality #SocialJustice #DiversityandInclusion #History #Community

Today, we honor #Juneteenth, a pivotal moment in American history and a day of immense significance for the Black community and all who value freedom, justice, and equality. Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, commemorates June 19, 1865, when the last enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, learned of their freedom—two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. This day is more than just a historical marker; it symbolizes the enduring fight for civil rights and social justice. The bravery and resilience of Black leaders and activists during the Civil Rights Movement laid the groundwork for the progress we see today. Their tireless efforts in the face of immense adversity have inspired countless other minority groups to pursue equality and advocate for their rights. Juneteenth reminds us of the importance of acknowledging our history, both its triumphs and its tribulations. It is a call to action to continue the work towards a more inclusive and equitable society. As we celebrate today, let’s reflect on the progress we have made and recognize the work that still lies ahead. To the Black community and all those who stand for justice: your courage and contributions have been vital in shaping a better world. Today, we stand with you in solidarity and commitment to the ongoing fight for equality. #Juneteenth #FreedomDay #CivilRights #Equality #Justice #BlackHistory #Inclusion #Diversity #AmericanFreedom

Celebrating Juneteenth: Allyship and Action I am not posting a Juneteenth meme today. I felt that I could easily post one and say....." I did my part". However, if you know me, you know I am "ALL IN", and I wanted to not just show I am an Ally but put words to my thoughts today, a recommitment even for myself. Today, as we commemorate Juneteenth, we honor the end of slavery in the United States and reflect on the ongoing journey toward racial equality. It’s a day to celebrate the resilience and contributions of Black Americans, and also a day to acknowledge the work that remains. ( There is a lot of work remaining!) As an ally, I recognize the importance of seeing and understanding my own privilege. It’s not enough to simply be non-racist; we must be actively anti-racist. This means listening to and amplifying Black voices, educating ourselves and others, and challenging systemic inequalities. Juneteenth reminds us that freedom and justice are not gifts; they are fought for and won through persistence and courage. Let’s use this day to recommit to speaking up and working for those who have been silenced or marginalized. Together, we can build a more equitable and just society. #Juneteenth #Allyship #EqualityForAll Be Kind to yourself and others!!

As we commemorate Juneteenth, we celebrate the resilience, strength, and enduring spirit of the Black community. On June 19, 1865, enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, finally received word of their freedom, marking a monumental step towards justice and equality in the United States. However, it’s crucial to remember that this joyous news came more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. This delay underscores the long road toward true freedom and the systemic negligence that has often hindered progress. Today, Juneteenth serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of timely justice and the ongoing fight against racial inequality. It’s a day to honor the past, recognize the present, and commit to a future where freedom and equity are genuinely realized for all. Let’s use this day to not only celebrate but also to reflect on our collective responsibility to advocate for change and support the Black community in meaningful ways. Happy Juneteenth! #Juneteenth #FreedomDay #BlackHistory #Equality #Inclusion #peoplematter #InspireInclusion