Juneteenth: Liberation and Making

​Juneteenth marked the emancipation of enslaved Africans in the United States. As newly emancipated African Americans celebrated Juneteenth, our festivities embodied a blend of jubilation, resilience, and cultural reclamation.
 
In the aftermath of emancipation, Juneteenth celebrations often commenced with religious services, acknowledging both the spiritual journey of their ancestors and the newfound freedom we had attained. Land was purchased and churches became focal points for community gatherings, where prayers, songs, and sermons reverberated with themes of liberation and hope.
 
Central to Juneteenth festivities were communal gatherings, where families and communities came together to commemorate our shared heritage and collective struggle. These gatherings had vibrant music, spirited dance, and sumptuous feasts, creating an atmosphere of joy and unity.

Juneteenth celebrations also served as occasions for education and reflection, as we as African Americans claim our history and assert our cultural identity. Orators delivered speeches highlighting the significance of emancipation and the ongoing struggle for equality. While elders imparted wisdom passed down through generations. Through storytelling, poetry, and artistic expression, participants honored the resilience of our ancestors and affirmed their commitment to justice and freedom.
 
I can imagine all the things, food stuffs and effort it too for our ancestors to gather and make and embellish and make to annually celebrate this date. These objects serve to support in learning and understanding the user or purpose.
 
As a Black artist I like to investigate how Juneteenth manifested into objects, food, art, fashion, and Black Economics. I want to support educators through project-based learning incorporating concepts and curriculums of Juneteenth and liberation all year round. Not just in June or February.
 
Because Black people are Black all the other months of the year.
 
If you didn’t know. 

---