An informative message from Jackie Ferguson, Talent Acquisition Specialist, at OneScreen.ai
Juneteenth is a federal holiday that is observed on June 19th to commemorate the end of slavery in the United States. The name "Juneteenth" references the date of the holiday by combining the words "June" and "nineteenth." Other references to the holiday are Emancipation Day, Freedom Day, and Juneteenth Independence Day.
Originally celebrated in Texas, on June 19, 1866 when enslaved people there first learned of the Emancipation Proclamation, which had been issued more than two years prior by President Abraham Lincoln. The holiday was celebrated with prayer meetings, singing spiritual songs, and wearing new clothes to represent freedom. The celebrations extended to other states with annual traditions and in 2021 it became a national holiday.
Juneteenth marks a date of major significance in American history and shows us that freedom and racial equality have always been a hard-fought battle for African Americans. Emancipation celebrations were spaces where African Americans reflected on the past, present and future of the race, commemorated what freedom meant to them, and served as a call to action for continued struggles.
OneScreen.ai recognizes Juneteenth (observed on June 20 this year) as a paid holiday for US-based team members. We encourage all to take time to reflect on our shared past and commit to volunteerism, education, and activism to end racial injustice. Whether you participate in one of the many virtual Juneteenth celebrations offered by community and civic organizations around the country or spend some time educating yourself about this piece of our history, please set aside time to reflect on the significance of this holiday and share something you learned with a colleague or friend.