Anti-Racism Commitment Coalition

Because of ARCC’s course, I have learned so much from the course material and I have had the opportunity to hear from so many people with different backgrounds about their own personal experiences and stories.

Fredrick Douglass gave a speech on July 5th, 1852 entitled “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?”. In this speech, he criticizes the way American ideals of independence only apply to White people.

People must remember that not everyone has been freed yet, and the Fourth of July shouldn’t just be about the barbecues, get-togethers, fireworks, and parades. To honor everyone's journey, ARCC is launching an anti-racist fourth-of-July media and giving campaign.

As we all know July 4th, 1776, was the day the US signed the Declaration of Independence from Britain. It was declared that the American people had gained Independence from British rule. That’s great and all…but what about the Black American people who were still enslaved by their other White American counterparts?

The model minority myth has been a widely discussed sociological phenomenon, but like everything discussed at ARCC, it is a small piece of a much larger picture.

Now that Juneteenth is a federal holiday, we must give it the attention that we do the 4th. While I have the fondest memories of the 4th from my childhood, I am trying to balance out the importance I give to both holidays from now on. 

Many Black girls and boys find trouble in loving the skin they were born in. This Juneteenth, it is important for those born with this beautiful Black skin to take the time to see the beauty in their color. For those who need some reminding, I encourage you to check out “Pretty Brown Skin” by Maverick City Music and Eugene King. 

The Fourth of July is often celebrated with fireworks, parades, barbecues, and a strong feeling of national pride. However, this day also serves as an opportunity to reflect on the true meaning of patriotism. Patriotism is not only about love for one's country but also about striving to make it better.

International Juneteenth celebrations underscore the cultural exchange and solidarity among freedom movements. In Germany, Berlin hosts Juneteenth celebrations where African American expatriates and local activists collaborate to promote awareness of black history and contemporary issues.

As many people know, Juneteenth marks the day when Union soldiers marched into Galveston Bay, Texas, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation, to announce the end of slavery and free the enslaved people there. During Juneteenth, there is much conversation about the Emancipation Proclamation.