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Radical Self Care: How Are You Honoring Juneteenth?
Two years since being recognized as a national holiday, Juneteenth remains one of the most significant federal holidays to be enacted and celebrated in a while. Juneteenth, also known as “Freedom Day,” marks the anniversary of the emancipation of enslaved Africans in 1865. In 2021, NPR shared an important piece outlining the history and significance of Juneteenth. Check it out on NPR: Juneteenth: What It Is and How It Is Observed.
As for me, I’m sharing how I plan to honor Juneteenth…
I plan to do nothing but turn off all notifications and rest. That’s it. R-E-S-T!
My ancestors fought hard for their freedom. And while work still needs to be done to address inequities impacting Black people and other folx of color, on Monday June 19th, 2023, I will honor my ancestors with radical self-care in the form of rest.
As the powerful queer Black woman activist, writer, and scholar Audre Lorde boldly stated, “Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.” And as a Black woman facilitating important work on diversity, equity, and inclusion, I will enjoy the beauty of doing nothing.
I encourage other Black folx to do the same. For our allies, I hope you find a way to honor this day in a way that serves the advancement and psychological safety of your Black and Brown peers in your respective communities and workplace.
How are you celebrating Juneteenth?
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