If you’re a fan of the show “Black-ish,” you may recall the powerful episode dedicated to Juneteenth, a significant yet often overlooked holiday in American history. Juneteenth deserves more recognition than it currently receives, and what better platform than “Black-ish”—renowned for addressing pressing societal issues like race and history with humor and relatability—to shed light on this important event?
In the Season 4 premiere, the twins’ school plans to perform a play about Christopher Columbus, but their father, Marcus, challenges the glorified narrative surrounding colonialism. Why aren’t we discussing Juneteenth? he asks.
In a strikingly creative musical number reminiscent of “Hamilton,” the cast of “Black-ish” educates viewers about this crucial holiday. If you haven’t seen it yet, I encourage you to watch the performance of the song “We Built This,” which powerfully illustrates how the foundations of America were laid by enslaved individuals. Go ahead—I’ll wait.
Historically, despite Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation in 1863 and the 13th Amendment’s formal abolition of slavery in 1865, the institution of slavery endured, particularly in the South. It wasn’t until Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, that the last enslaved individuals learned they were free—two and a half years after the official end of slavery.
This date, June 19th, is what we commemorate as Juneteenth, marking the true conclusion of slavery in the United States. This raises a critical question: why does America celebrate figures like Columbus, whose legacy is deeply problematic, yet fails to honor the day when all Americans were granted freedom?
In one poignant moment from the episode, Marcus’s son, Jordan, critiques the lack of recognition for Juneteenth, highlighting that society is quick to celebrate other holidays but neglects to acknowledge this vital moment in history. He suggests, “You don’t tell others they can only enjoy a single holiday,” pointing out the disparity in recognition.
While Marcus hopes for Juneteenth to become a national holiday, I believe it’s essential for the Black community to have a holiday that genuinely belongs to us. Other holidays like Martin Luther King Jr. Day have often been commercialized, losing their original significance. At the very least, there should be a collective effort to understand and educate ourselves about this important day. After all, knowledge is power.
Next year, I plan to celebrate Juneteenth with my family, indulging in strawberry soda and baking red velvet cupcakes—both traditional ways to commemorate this day. It will be a time for reflection on how far we’ve come and how much further we need to go since that pivotal day in 1865.
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In summary, Juneteenth represents a crucial moment in American history that deserves recognition and celebration. As we reflect on its significance, let’s commit to educating ourselves and others about this important day.