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Defining moments in history remind us of the ongoing fight for freedom, justice and equity. One of those moments was June 19, 1865, when the last Black enslaved people in our nation were set free in Galveston, Texas.
Known as Juneteenth, Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, it is when we commemorate the end of slavery in America, coming more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. For many Black Americans, Juneteenth is a poignant reminder of how justice is often delayed, and how freedom and equality do not always co-exist. We recognize this year’s observance is especially meaningful as it comes weeks after a measure of accountability was meted in the murder of George Floyd, a case that galvanized a global stand against systemic racism.
GM’s aspiration is to be the most inclusive company in the world. Part of that journey involves honoring cultural moments that are important to our employees, customers and communities. We celebrate Juneteenth history by engaging the community, volunteering and embracing inclusion. This creates an opportunity to learn, grow and build greater understanding for us all.
Our colleague, Juanita Slappy, shares her story about Juneteenth, her experience, and the day's significance to historically Black institutions and the community.
Juanita Slappy
(She/Her)
Head of Multicultural Marketing, Cadillac
What does Juneteenth mean to you?
It means education. I attended college at Hampton University, which was the site of the first southern reading of the Emancipation Proclamation – an act which accelerated the demand for African American education. The Emancipation Oak stands near the entrance of the Hampton University campus and is a lasting symbol of the area’s rich heritage and perseverance. The peaceful shade of the young oak served as the first classroom for newly freed men and women, eager for an education.
A freed Black woman read the proclamation from President Abraham Lincoln in 1863. That same woman defied Virginia law that banned the education of free and enslaved African Americans. Her bravery enabled my matriculation and education. Her heroism is not lost on me. This example reinforces the critical importance of HBCUs. That, I am a part of history. I attended school where history was made, and it, along with other historical occurrences, was an integral part of my time in undergrad. I carry those lessons with me.
It reminds me of the profound steps in the slow march of progress, and the unrelenting strides to build an equitable society.
Why do you want people to continue the conversation and education around it?
As the old saying goes, it’s important to educate ourselves about the past to understand the possibilities of the future.
It is our responsibility to know history as we champion for change. Juneteenth allows individuals and companies to practice active listening and allyship by taking actions to create inclusive and equitable workplaces and communities. It requires collective awareness to recognize and address this important part of U.S. history and have conversations to bring about change and freedom.
How do you celebrate it?
Last year, I participated in a “Celebrate Freedom” eBike tour led by Jason Hall of RiDetroit through the captivating mural district of Eastern Market in collaboration with DISTINCT LIFE.
DISTINCT LIFE agency director Rick Williams created one of the murals we visited during the tour. We culminated our experience adjacent to the Spirit of Detroit with a group photo at the “Power to the People” street mural by renowned artist Dr. Hubert Massey. In fact, GM supported the initial installation of this mural in 2020 and will lend its support again this year, to make this a permanent installation for the city of Detroit.
What does freedom look like to you?
Equity. Freedom occurs when equity is taken into the realm of participation. Freedom uses equity to make allowances for unique skills, advantages, strengths, etc. Equity recognizes more than an equal humanity. Equity recognizes a shared humanity. And that is freedom.