ARCC Blog

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. 

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.

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.

Growing up in Valparaiso, I had hardly heard of Juneteenth outside of passing conversation; this makes sense, considering the 2020 census listed the town’s demographics as roughly 80% white-identifying. Still, this begs the question: why is the observation of the now-federal holiday still so limited?

When I think of Juneteenth, I am happy that we can honor a day to celebrate a time representing freedom for African Americans. Anywhere in the United States, not just in Galveston, Texas.

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.

Juneteenth is a day to celebrate our country’s second Independence Day. As a Texan, this day is especially important for us to remember and to be educated about because we were unfortunately the last state to enforce the emancipation proclamation to free all the slaves.