A Message from Organizational Culture, Inclusion & Equity
Today, we commemorate an important day for our country. June 19th or Juneteenth, the reading of the federal orders by the Union army general Gordon Grange in the city of Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865. This proclamation declared the freedom of all enslaved people in the US.
This year, we have an additional cause for acknowledging this day with the daily reminders of our unfinished work to be a truly free nation. While we reflect on the recent killings of Black Americans, we all should ask ourselves: What are we doing to advance anti-racism in our community?
For 155 years, many in our community have honored Juneteenth, also known as Freedom or Liberation Day, for the spirit with which it was intended. It is never too late to do what is right and to fully realize the promise and vision of Juneteenth. As the saying goes: “The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago — the second-best time is today.”
Juneteenth is also a time for celebration, food, arts, music, and spiritual unity. We have a few events throughout today that we hope you'll join. We look forward to engaging you in a conversation and to hear how you plan on celebrating Juneteenth. Share your thoughts, recipes, and playlists.
Twitter Chat
The Office of Organizational Culture, Inclusion and Equity will host a Twitter chat on Friday from 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. using the hashtag #CCwOCIE.
Follow along and join the conversation on Twitter and Instagram.
Community Conversation on the Origins of Juneteenth
Please join the Office of Organizational Culture, Inclusion and Equity on Friday at 11:00 a.m. for a conversation with the College of Social Science, Practice and Policy on the origins of Juneteenth.
Juneteenth: A Community Celebration by the Museum of Fine Arts and BAMS Fest
In addition, The Museum of Fine Arts and BAMS Fest will be hosting a live stream celebration entitled “Juneteenth: A Community Celebration” from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Resources on Anti Racism
The past few weeks have been painful, as the United States has been forced to reckon with appalling acts of continued racism and injustices.
The Office of Organizational Culture, Inclusion and Equity has created a list of regularly updated resources related to equity and inclusion. These resources take you beyond self-education and connect readers to action and advocacy. See a full list of resources.
Additional Events and Opportunities to Learn
Throughout the day, the Simmons University Twitter and Instagram will be sharing events going on in our community as well as opportunities to learn.