Celebrating Juneteenth with Hapi Listener - Janeesha Jones (she/her)

Hapi Juneteenth, Everyone!

Juneteenth, also known as "Freedom Day," "Jubilee Day," or "Emancipation Day," is celebrated on June 19 every year to commemorate the emancipation of the last enslaved African Americans who were liberated two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. This day officially became a federal holiday in 2021 to honor African Americans' struggles, their contributions throughout history and reflect on the ongoing fight for equality and justice.

Last week, I was delighted to be joined by Janeesha Jones (she/her) for an interview to share her experience, reflections, and insights on the meaning of Juneteenth and what it represents.

Hapi:?Hello Janeesha, Thank you for joining me today to talk about this upcoming holiday, Juneteenth. Before we start, please tell us a little about yourself.

Janeesha:?Hi! My name is Janeesha Jones (she/her), and I consider myself a servant leader. My work history has spanned multiple sectors, from serving the U.S. House of Representatives to juggling hats in start-up culture. But my passion is in listening, loving, and empowering people. My current role is focused on empowering community-based movements and advocacy. I'm an extroverted introvert, an empath, and most importantly, a proud black first-generation queer woman raised by a village of Caribbean & afro Latinx immigrants.

Hapi:?Can you briefly explain the historical significance of Juneteenth and its importance in American history??

Janeesha:?The historical significance of Juneteenth dates back to June 19, 1865, when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Texas and announced the emancipation of enslaved African Americans.?This announcement came two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation. Two years! Isn't that crazy??

Juneteenth represents the day when the news of freedom reached the last enslaved peoples in the United States, marking a crucial milestone in the struggle for African American liberation from slavery. It holds immense importance in American history as a symbol of the end of slavery and the ongoing fight for equality and civil rights.

Hapi: What does Juneteenth mean to you personally, and how do you celebrate it??

Janeesha:?As a black woman in America, Juneteenth is like my independence day. It marks the celebration of freedom, resilience, and progress. It is an opportunity to reflect on the struggles and triumphs of African Americans throughout history and honor the contributions we have made to society. In my neighborhood, Juneteenth is commemorated with a huge festival. Black-owned businesses open up stands, dance floors and DJs take over the streets, and lots of amazing black food from across the diaspora is shared. It's one of the few things I look forward to every year.

Hapi: Juneteenth has gained more recognition in recent years and recently became a federal holiday in the United States. How do you think this recognition impacts the perception and awareness of Juneteenth nationally?

Janeesha:?The recent federal recognition of Juneteenth as a holiday in the United States is a significant step forward in raising national awareness about the historical importance of this day. It helps to amplify the message that the struggle for freedom and equality is a shared responsibility and a part of the collective American story. This recognition provides an opportunity for broader public education about Juneteenth and encourages individuals, organizations, and communities to engage in conversations about racial equality, justice, and the ongoing work that needs to be done.

Hapi:?Are you often encounter any common misconceptions or misunderstandings about Juneteenth? If so, how do you address it?

Janeesha: There are a few common misconceptions about Juneteenth that I often come across.?

One misconception is that Juneteenth represents the end of slavery in the United States. While it commemorates the announcement of emancipation, it is important to recognize that slavery was officially abolished with the ratification of the 13th Amendment in December 1865. Additionally, slavery in this country was not entirely abolished, with the loophole of slavery being applicable to incarcerated individuals. The prison industrial complex has weaponized this loophole against communities of color for decades since the inception of the 13th Amendment.?

Another misconception is that Juneteenth is solely a celebration for the African American community. In reality, Juneteenth is a celebration of freedom and equality that should be embraced by all Americans, regardless of race, as it represents a?significant?moment in our collective history and the ongoing struggle for justice and equality.

Hapi:?DEI in the workplace is important. How can companies better recognize and celebrate Juneteenth, not just on the day of but throughout the year?

Janeesha:?Companies can better recognize and celebrate Juneteenth by implementing initiatives that promote education, awareness, and inclusion throughout the year. This can include organizing educational workshops, hosting guest speakers, providing resources on African American history, and supporting employee resource groups focused on racial and cultural diversity. Companies should also strive to create an inclusive and equitable work environment where diverse perspectives are valued and amplified. Additionally, supporting community organizations and events related to Juneteenth is a meaningful way for companies to demonstrate their commitment to racial equality and social justice.

Hapi:?What's the importance of community in celebrating Juneteenth?

Janeesha:?The importance of community in celebrating Juneteenth just cannot be overstated. Juneteenth brings people together to commemorate and honor the struggles and achievements of African Americans. It is an opportunity for individuals to connect with their heritage, share stories, and foster a sense of belonging.

Hapi:?Why is listening important when understanding different racial and ethnic groups and their history?

Janeesha:?What we do at Hapi is by far the most important way to bridge the gap between knowing and understanding the importance of the lived experiences of people in different racial and ethnic groups. By actively listening to the experiences and perspectives of individuals from diverse backgrounds, we develop empathy, broaden our knowledge, dismantle our biases, and challenge our preconceived notions. Listening allows us to acknowledge the systemic challenges and injustices faced by marginalized communities, including racial and ethnic groups, and enables us to work towards dismantling those barriers. It helps foster meaningful dialogue, cultivate understanding, and promote inclusivity and equity.

Janeesha:?Lastly, what are your plans this year for celebrating Juneteenth?

Juneteenth is an annual celebration for me and my family. Every year we celebrate at the Juneteenth block party here in Leimert Park, Los Angeles.?Leimert Park?is one of the many predominantly black neighborhoods in LA that has a rich history of segregation, civil rights, and (most importantly) resilience. Every year the festival brings together Black-owned businesses, highlights Black stories, and brings the community together to share in joy and empowerment. I'm very excited to dance, sing, and eat amazing food this Monday.?

Also, as a DEIA/B facilitator and Listener of love, I like to spend Juneteenth weekend reflecting and educating. There's still so much work left to be done when it comes to civil liberties and justice for marginalized communities. As we step forward, I like to remember it's a marathon, not a sprint, and we will get there together.