With Juneteenth just around the corner, honoring the holiday – and the history behind it – can help you support Black entrepreneurs and celebrate Juneteenth. Read on for tips that will help you appreciate and support Black-owned businesses all year long.
What is Juneteenth?
Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration marking the end of slavery in the United States. Observed each year on June 19, Juneteenth originated in Texas in 1865 — around 2.5 years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation — and became a federal holiday in 2021.
According to Juneteenth.com, the holiday “celebrates African American freedom and achievement while encouraging continuous self-development and respect for all cultures.” A time for “reflection and rejoicing,” celebrations come in all shapes and sizes, but Juneteenth is often honored with parades, street fairs, picnics and gatherings.
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- Give staff a paid day off: non-essential offices for federal government employees will be closed for Juneteenth and all staff will receive their regular compensation, of course, but if you have a small business, consider giving your team a paid holiday for Juneteenth.
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- Participate in local Juneteenth events: Whether your city is hosting a Juneteenth concert, parade, seminar or cook-out, grab your family, friends and staff and show up in support. If you’re planning ahead, you can also check to see if there are opportunities to serve as a sponsor of a Juneteenth event. You can also invite your employees to volunteer with a Black-led organization or to promote and attend Junteenth events in your area.
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- Provide digital support to Black-owned businesses: See a Black-owned business announcing their grand opening, expanding their hours or hosting a big sale? Give them a shoutout on your business’ social media channels and encourage your customers not to miss out!
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- Source Black-owned products and services to display in your business: Reach out to Black entrepreneurs and artists for collaboration, then share their available offerings with your customers through a thoughtful display inside your store.
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- Make a donation: Pledge to make a monthly, bi-monthly or quarterly donation to an organization that supports Black communities. In an effort to “advance racial equity and mobilize positive action for Black lives,” Giving Gap makes it easy to donate quickly and securely to a growing list of organizations.
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It’s also important to take the time to learn the full history of Juneteenth, and to use your voice to advocate for its recognition in workplaces and schools.
While the holiday itself serves as an opportunity to commemorate its cardinal significance, showing up for Black entrepreneurs and Black-led organizations is important all year long.
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