Juneteenth Is A Day For African Americans To Embrace Cultural Power

It was on June 19th, 1865, that Union General, Gordon Grander, informed enslaved African Americans of their freedom announcing that the Civil War ended. General Granger’s announcement put into effect the Emancipation Proclamation, issued nearly two and a half years earlier, on Jan. 1, 1863, by President Abraham Lincoln.

Congress passed The Juneteenth National Independence Day Act in June 2021, and Biden signed the bill into Federal law on June 17.

Juneteenth celebrations recognize the ongoing fight for human rights and equality and are commemorated through community, faith services, performances, and educational history telling.

The National Museum Of African American History And Culture states, "Juneteenth represents the resilience of the African American Community while aiding in the preservation of important historical narratives that promote racial and personal advancement."

Embracing Cultural Power

Culture provides a means by which people make sense of the world. And the analysis between Cultural power and Social movements proves just how strongly culture shapes our beliefs and desires.

Because Culture is more than just the private beliefs of individuals, and it is more than a set of broad principles. It involves a dynamic interaction that shapes private and public acts together.

So what does it mean to embrace cultural power?

Culture Creates Community

Our culture provides a place in which we can feel seen, heard, and connected. And these shared experiences can help shape our perspectives. These connections to our roots and cultural identities help support our mental health.

Culture Can Empower Entrepreneurship and Ignite Activism

Akim Wilson, Owner Of Soulseed Apparel, uses her brand messaging to celebrate Black Excellence. She cites education as the key growth moment for her. "I was taught things that I had never heard before and things that could actually be proven historically and scientifically about who I was and who my people were. Ever since then, I have walked with confidence from knowing that we are Great people at our best.

This walk requires that my chin stay up and my chest stay out as I navigate this society, this walk requires me to have pride in my own and know my place in society as a magnificent soul being." Check out the latest episode of Dr. Hall's Better Black Health podcast, where Akim is the special guest. Tune in and listen to their powerful conversation here.