Juneteenth: A Call to Celebration, Reflection, and Action
This Juneteenth, as we commemorate a pivotal moment in American history when the last enslaved people were emancipated in Texas on June 19, 1865, we are called to reflect on the meaning of freedom, justice, and our ongoing commitment to Quaker ideals.
As Stony Run Member Linda Loubert reminds us, "Although the Emancipation Proclamation became effective on January 1, 1863, enforcement relied on Union military presence. Texas was the last Confederate state where the Proclamation was enforced, making June 19 a powerful symbol of delayed freedom."
Linda continues, "Also known as Emancipation Day, Freedom Day, or Jubilee Day, Juneteenth has long been celebrated in African American communities with parades, music, food, prayer services, and educational events. In 2021, Juneteenth was designated a federal holiday, marking a significant recognition of its importance in American history and the ongoing struggle for racial justice."
Indeed, Juneteenth is not merely a historical observance; it is a call to action. In this spirit, Stony Run Member Debbie Ramsey offers a powerful and tangible call to action:
"The Juneteenth celebration brings to mind how enslaved people stopped work and demanded equitable compensation. In the spirit of fair wages for fair work, I would like to see my Stony Run community collectively stop working for 19 seconds on June 19 at 10 AM in solidarity with those who have courageously done just that for a lifetime."
Let us heed Debbie's call. On June 19th wherever you are, whatever you are doing, pause for 19 seconds of quiet reflection on the profound sacrifice and courage of those who demanded freedom and fair treatment. Let it be a moment of solidarity with all who continue to strive for economic justice and equitable compensation.
While the path was not always uniform, the Light within led Friends to oppose the institution of slavery, becoming some of the earliest and most vocal abolitionists. Quaker testimonies of Equality and Integrity hold us to recognize the Divine Light in every individual, regardless of their skin color or social status, and to live truthfully in accordance with that belief. The testimony of Peace extends beyond the absence of war to the active pursuit of right relationship and justice. May this Juneteenth inspire us to renewed commitment in the ongoing pursuit of equity and justice.