June 19, 1865, is a day that forever changed the United States. Widely known as Juneteenth (a clever combination of the words “June” and the “nineteenth”), this historic day marks the beginning of our nation’s journey of becoming a more perfect union in which we value life and liberty, justice and equality. Celebrating Juneteenth is not just about commemorating a moment in history but about living into a message of freedom for all.

While our culture reminds us of the divisions in our communities, this is a great time to come together and celebrate our newest national holiday and recommit ourselves to the important work of equity, equality, and justice.

What We Are Celebrating on Juneteenth

On January 1, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln boldly issued the Emancipation Proclamation in the middle of the American Civil War. This was not just a document that freed the African American slaves throughout the United States, but it was a proclamation of freedom for all, reminding us of the inherent value and dignity of all mankind. 

More than two years after Lincoln’s original declaration of freedom, Union troops entered Galveston Bay, Texas, and announced that all slaves were freed under the president’s proclamation. On June 19, 1865, freedom was the message the troops came to bring, and it was the message that was celebrated every year following the end of the Civil War.

Why We Celebrate Juneteenth

Juneteenth marks the anniversary of the day that freed all African Americans from slavery! It is widely celebrated in the United States, especially among the African American community, because it marks a time of new beginnings, a time of the realization of the hopes and dreams of the many generations that came before them.

The first Juneteenth celebration took place on June 19, 1866. Freedmen in Texas organized “Jubilee Day” that was celebrated for years to come. As African Americans migrated to other parts of the country, they took their Juneteenth traditions with them, spreading their message of freedom and hope.

Juneteenth was just the first step in a long road to opportunity and acceptance. In time, new freedoms would come to fruition: the right to vote, to speak and be heard, to receive an equal education, and to live in safe neighborhoods. Soon, business opportunities would arise, fueling the entrepreneurial spirit within the black community and providing new ways to better support their families. They have been able to weave their way into the fabric of this country, many working on their own farms or starting their own companies. Their impact is far and wide and on amazing display at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture.

How We Honor Juneteenth at ONC National

As a minority-owned business, ONC National is dedicated to serving its community, bringing businesses and people together through the power of connection. Emboldened by the courage of those who came before her, CEO Jacquelyn Clayborn strives every day to inspire, influence, and invest in her team and community. She is forever grateful for the sacrifices made by those that fought for the rights and freedoms of black Americans, which led to the shared freedoms we enjoy today.

Her shared vision and company mission is to simplify network services and make network connection possible for businesses so you can impact your local community. At ONC National, we are inspired by the historic nature of this pivotal event that recognized the evil of slavery and the inherent dignity and humanity in every person regardless of race. To that end, we actively embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion, seeking to help bring about connection, specifically by impacting the customers we serve and the communities in which we live, work, and play.

How You Can Celebrate Juneteenth

One of the best ways to celebrate Juneteenth is to honor the memory of its creation by spreading awareness of this important national holiday. This year’s celebration falls on a Sunday, making it the perfect time to connect with others outside your normal circle of friends and family. Think how refreshing it would be to lean into a conversation with the black community and listen to their stories and perspectives. Cultural divides are often bridged most effectively when we come together and realize there’s a lot more that connects us than divides us.

To join us in celebrating Juneteenth and the message of freedom for all, check out all the fun local events happening in and around our offices located in Dallas, TX.
(1, 2, & 3) and Little Rock, AR. ( 1 & 2).

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