Celebrating July 4th in the Shadows of Juneteenth: A Nuanced Approach

Introduction

As a New Zealander, the 4th of July is not a date we celebrate. Instead, our national day of independence is marked on February 6th, honoring the Treaty of Waitangi. This treaty, signed in 1840, was a pact between the British and the native Māori people to claim New Zealand as part of the British Commonwealth. However, the celebration of the 4th of July has taken on a different tone in recent years, especially in light of the rising awareness of Juneteenth.

What is Juneteenth and Why Does It Matter?

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, Emancipation Day, or Jubilee Day, is a celebration of the end of slavery in the United States. It commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union soldiers, led by Major General Gordon Granger, announced to Galveston, Texas, that the enslaved were now free, as stated in the Emancipation Proclamation issued two and a half years earlier by President Abraham Lincoln.

Juneteenth Origins and Historical Context

1865 (June 19) – Juneteenth: Union soldiers, led by Major General Gordon Granger, read the Executive Order in Galveston, Texas, declaring that all enslaved individuals in Galveston were now free. 1863 – Emancipation Proclamation: President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, offering freedom to slaves in Confederate states. 1879 – First Juneteenth Celebration: The first official Juneteenth celebration was held in Texas, marking the importance of the day for generations of African Americans.

Nuancing July 4th with Juneteenth

The salient point emerging from the confluence of these two independence days is the resonance and the complexity they bring to the narrative of freedom and liberty. While July 4th is often celebrated as the birth of the United States, Juneteenth reminds us of the ongoing struggle for true freedom and equality.

Consequences of Historical Ignorance

Much of the celebration associated with the 4th of July often glosses over the grim chapters of its past, including the institution of slavery, Jim Crow laws, and systemic racism. Recognizing Juneteenth encourages a more nuanced view of US history, one that acknowledges complex and often painful truths.

Reevaluating Independence Celebrations

By acknowledging Juneteenth, we are reevaluating the concept of independence. It challenges us to consider what true freedom means, not just in the abstract, but in its concrete and lived experiences. This reevaluation should lead to deeper reflection on the symbols and values that define our national identity.

Practical Steps Towards a More Inclusive Celebration

Implementing these steps can help us celebrate a more inclusive and nuanced July 4th:

Education

Historical Context: Incorporate lessons on both the 4th of July and Juneteenth in educational curricula to foster a deeper understanding of the country's past. Community Discussions: Organize town hall meetings or community forums to discuss the significance of these dates and engage in dialogue about social justice.

Celebration

Inclusive Events: Host events that celebrate the contributions of African Americans to American culture and history. Multicultural Festivals: Encourage the creation of multicultural festivals that honor the diverse heritage of the United States.

Community Involvement

Volunteering: Engage in community service projects that promote racial equity and social justice. Supporting Local Businesses: Support local African American-owned businesses to boost the local economy and recognize their contributions.

Conclusion

As we continue to reckon with the historical and ongoing challenges of slavery, racism, and inequality, we must integrate a more comprehensive perspective into our celebration of July 4th and Juneteenth. The interplay of these two historical events underscores the importance of a nuanced and inclusive approach to independence and freedom.

Keywords

July 4th, Juneteenth, Independence Day