Community Chat

[Oznell]

I truly hope this won't be deemed "controversial".   How could it be--  a celebration of the end of slavery in the U.S.  It is a joyful event for every citizen, the marking of our country's leaving behind a loathsome institution of past centuries across the world.  Human ownership of other humans is rejected by all civilized people everywhere.

Whether we are "traditionalists" or "avant garde"  (I'm even avoiding political labels,ha), this is something we can all unite over, no?

My question for fellow posters who celebrate Juneteenth, do you have any special plans you'd care to share with us?

[chrystaltree]

How could  something as significant in American history as the end of Slavery in the this country be controversial?  But you are little bit off about June Teenth.  June 19th celebrates the end of Slavery in Texas and the emancipation of all slaves in the southern states.  June Teenth was actually several years after Lincoln emancipated the slaves.  

[Oznell]

I think people have felt its specific origins are not as important as that it gives a day to recognize a turning of the page in regards to bondage.  Most states recognize it as a special day of observance, and it has even become an international day of celebrating freedom.

Many have read out the Emancipation Proclamation on that day;  another of the significant documents of the United States.  It's been a time for people to get together, share food and have fellowship.  A special, cherished tradition.

[Oznell]

I found this article by the Smithsonian, that sums up my feeling about Juneteenth exactly-- tha it is our "other" independence day.

Don't you love the vintage photo they have of celebrants in 1900 in Austin?   Like so many old photos, it brings up much emotion for the people pictured.  Look at their strength, their resolute gazes toward the camera. Our American ancestors.  A tiny slice of time, memorably captured.

http://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/juneteenth-our-other-independence-day-16340952/

[itiswhatitis]

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@Oznell wrote:

I truly hope this won't be deemed "controversial".   How could it be--  a celebration of the end of slavery in the U.S.  It is a joyful event for every citizen, the marking of our country's leaving behind a loathsome institution of past centuries across the world.  Human ownership of other humans is rejected by all civilized people everywhere.

Whether we are "traditionalists" or "avant garde"  (I'm even avoiding political labels,ha), this is something we can all unite over, no?

My question for fellow posters who celebrate Juneteenth, do you have any special plans you'd care to share with us?

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Thank you @Oznell.

[itiswhatitis]

[StraytoStay]

There's still human traffickers unfortunately. Not completely over, wish it was. 😞

[itiswhatitis]

[itiswhatitis]

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@StraytoStay wrote:

There's still human traffickers unfortunately. Not completely over, wish it was. 😞

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It is over for descendants of Africans enslaved in THIS country.  Trafficking is another topic @StraytoStay.