Celebrating Juneteenth: Honoring Freedom and Community

juneteenth

Juneteenth, observed annually on June 19, commemorates the day in 1865 when enslaved individuals in Texas were informed of their emancipation, marking a pivotal moment in American history. Today, it stands as a celebration of freedom, resilience, and the ongoing journey toward equality.

Ways to Celebrate Juneteenth

1. Support Black-Owned Businesses
Engaging with and supporting Black-owned businesses is a meaningful way to honor Juneteenth. Platforms like BuyBlack.org and Official Black Wall Street offer directories to discover and support Black entrepreneurs in various industries.

2. Host a Community Gathering
Organize a community cookout or potluck featuring traditional Juneteenth dishes such as barbecue, red velvet cake, and hibiscus tea. These foods are rich in cultural significance and provide an opportunity for neighbors to come together in celebration.en.wikipedia.org

3. Educate and Reflect
Take time to learn about the history and significance of Juneteenth. Resources like the National Museum of African American History and Culture offer educational materials and virtual exhibits to deepen understanding.

4. Attend Local Events
Many communities host Juneteenth events, including parades, concerts, and cultural festivals. Participating in these events fosters a sense of unity and allows for collective reflection and celebration.unitedwaybroward.org

At Aperto Property Management, we encourage our residents to engage in activities that honor the spirit of Juneteenth. Whether through supporting local Black-owned businesses, organizing community gatherings, or participating in educational events, each action contributes to a more inclusive and connected community.

Celebrating Black History Month in One of Your Aperto Communities

black history month with three hearts

Gear up your month at Aperto Apartments during Black History Month. Every U.S president, since 1976, has declared the month of February as Black History Month, making February an extraordinary time to celebrate. It’s a time to commemorate all the achievements of Black culture, businesses, and so much more. 

Supporting Black-Owned Businesses

One of the first things you can do to support black-owned businesses is to use your buying power to support their business. But, why not take it a step further and write a positive review online to help promote the company to other patrons. It’s no secret that social media has taken the world by storm since its inception. Writing a review and sharing it online helps get the word out about the business.

Engage with the business both online and in-person. Getting to know the small business owner and what they stand for is another great way to find out more about the company and promote it to family and friends that may need the products/services sold by the business.

Suppose you have any experience, expertise, technical skills, or a network that the business may benefit from. In that case, offering mentorship or resources is another great way of supporting black-owned businesses.

Learning About Noteworthy Black Figures

A great start would be to invest time in learning about noteworthy black figures that come from your area. Get to know the history and legacy in your area first. Support black history by taking yourself on a trip down history to see what was happening in your neighborhood and which notable figures hail from your own town/city.

Start by supporting local artist Gerald Stripling by viewing his art piece Anastasis at Laguna Beach City Hall lawn.

A rich history to learn from

If you love to learn new things, then Black History Month will not disappoint. It is full of rich history, significant historical figures, and plenty of facts to help broaden your knowledge on this topic. Read a book, search the internet, or visit a historical place. Most of it is free.