What is Juneteenth?

“It's an opportunity to both look back but to look ahead to make sure that that notion of freedom and the fragility of it is always protected and celebrated.”—Lonnie Bunch, American educator and historian

This historic day commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and justice. Celebrating Juneteenth allows us to honor the resilience and strength of those who fought for freedom and to recognize the enduring spirit of self-determination within the African American community. It's a day to reflect on the progress made, acknowledge the remaining challenges, and recommit to building a more equitable society.

African American keynote speakers play an essential role in this celebration, uniquely positioned to share their stories of overcoming adversity, advocating for diversity and inclusion, and breaking barriers. Their personal experiences and professional achievements bring invaluable perspectives to the Juneteenth narrative, inspiring and educating audiences. These speakers highlight the importance of resilience, determination, and community, embodying the spirit of Juneteenth through their impactful messages.

Voices of Resilience and Triumph

Jason O. Harris is a distinguished keynote speaker and former military aviator whose journey exemplifies leadership and resilience. Transitioning from a decorated career as an Air Force pilot to becoming a sought-after leadership consultant and speaker, Harris inspires others to pursue excellence in their professional and personal lives. His story highlights the power of determination and innovative thinking in overcoming challenges and achieving success. His proprietary “No Fail Trust?” methodology serves as a tool to empower executives and team members to foster an environment of mutual trust, responsibility, and productivity.

Hill Harper , an accomplished actor and author, uses his platform to advocate for social justice and educational reform. His dedication to community upliftment and empowerment resonates deeply with audiences, motivating them to take action in their own lives. Harper’s commitment to creating positive change makes him a powerful voice in the fight for equality. Committed to sharing lessons and providing opportunities for underserved teens to achieve success, Harper founded Manifest Your Destiny Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to empowering underserved youth through mentorship, scholarship, and grant programs.

Daryl Davis , a celebrated musician and activist, is known for his extraordinary efforts to combat racism through dialogue and understanding. By engaging with members of hate groups, Davis has helped dismantle prejudice and build bridges between divided communities. His courageous work underscores the importance of empathy and open communication in fostering social change. Through his work, Daryl has discovered a successful method of transforming enemies into friends. His stories of encounters with––and transformations of––White supremacists have inspired people all over the U.S. and abroad.

Vernice "FlyGirl" Armour inspires audiences with her story of breaking barriers and achieving excellence. A gutsy trailblazer, her resume is an impressive collection of "firsts, ” including America’s first Black female combat pilot. She was also a diversity liaison officer to the Pentagon for Headquarters Marine Corps. On stage, FlyGirl unleashes hard-hitting advice and amazing anecdotes from her adventures on the battlefield and in business, helping individuals and organizations 'Get Gutsy' and build a sustainable inner force and conviction to accomplish significant goals. rmour’s trailblazing career is a testament to the power of grit and perseverance.

Lauren Maillian , a pioneering entrepreneur and investor, empowers others through her journey of breaking barriers in the business world. A change agent committed to innovation, diversity, equity, and inclusion, she's also an award-winning marketer, prolific investor, advisor, entrepreneur, and board member with a multi-hyphenate career spanning over 15 years. Maillian’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of representation and equity in achieving success.

Karith Foster , a comedian and diversity expert, combines humor and insight to address important social issues. Her unique approach to fostering inclusive environments makes her a sought-after speaker on diversity and inclusion. Foster’s ability to blend comedy with critical conversations helps to break down barriers and promote understanding. From the airwaves to organizations, from universities to corporations, she’s creating a seismic shift in mindsets and revolutionizing the way we address issues of diversity, leadership and self-care.

David Goggins , a former Navy SEAL and endurance athlete, captivates audiences with his story of pushing beyond physical and mental limits. His incredible journey from a challenging childhood to becoming an elite athlete is a testament to the power of perseverance. Goggins's “no excuses; suck it up” approach has made him a favorite of the talking circuit. What his audiences get is a crash course in personal accountability, mental toughness, and resilience to overcome obstacles.

Raven Solomon , a leadership consultant and speaker, specializes in generational diversity and inclusion. Her expertise in bridging gaps between different age groups and fostering unity is crucial in today’s diverse workforce. Solomon’s engaging presentations emphasize the importance of understanding and collaboration in achieving organizational success. She's helped tens of thousands close the gaps inside dozens of industry-leading companies and create sustainable cultural change . She’s also consulted with household brands on generational diversity and inclusion, early talent development, and retention.

As we celebrate Juneteenth, consider these remarkable speakers for your next event. Their inspiring achievements remind us of the enduring strength and resilience within the African American community, and their voices honor the past and illuminate the path toward a more inclusive and equitable future for all.

If you're interested in any of them for your next event, DM me to inquire about availability and booking .