What does July 4th mean to slaves?

To some, celebrations of American independence on July 4 are a reminder of the country’s hypocrisy on the matter of freedom, as slavery played a key role in the nation’s history; even today, America’s history of racism is still being written, while other forms of modern-day slavery persist in the U.S. and around the …

How do you celebrate Juneteenth?

How to Celebrate Juneteenth This Year

1. Find an event in your neighborhood.
2. Host your own backyard party.
3. Cook some traditional foods.
4. Support Black-owned businesses.
5. Listen to Black artists.
6. Read books written by Black authors and poets.
7. Watch Black TV shows and movies.
8. Visit an exhibit or museum dedicated to Black culture.

Can I say Happy Juneteenth?

Just say ‘Happy Juneteenth! ‘ The easiest way to wish someone a Happy Juneteenth is by messaging them and wishing them a fulfilled day. Similar to Black History Month, and other important anniversaries to Black Americans, it is important to acknowledge it as an American holiday, even if you do not celebrate it.

What is considered African-American Independence Day?

Widely thought of as African American Independence Day, Juneteenth is a celebration of the official end of slavery. Serving as a symbol of total freedom from slave trade across all states, today Juneteenth provides an opportunity to reflect on what progress is still needed, as well as celebrate Black joy and community.

What did the 4th of July mean to Frederick Douglass?

To the slave, Douglass tells the audience, “your 4th of July is a sham; your boasted liberty, an unholy license [for enslaving blacks] . . . your shouts of liberty and equality, hollow mockery.” He considers such a pro-slavery posture to be blasphemy because it gives cruelty a place in God’s nature.

What food do you eat on Juneteenth?

Red Foods. One of the main themes associated with Juneteenth is the color red. “The red food traditions that you eat during the time of Juneteenth bring recognition to the bloodshed of the enslaved,” says Purdie. You’ll find watermelon as a part of almost any spread, whether cubed, sliced, or even pickled.

What the heck is Juneteenth?

Juneteenth is the oldest celebration of the end of slavery in the US. And it should be recognized as a federal holiday. In 1865, Texas slave owners had refused to acknowledge the end of the Civil War and the Emancipation Proclamation.

What did the Fourth of July mean to Frederick Douglass quizlet?

Douglass says the Fourth of July reminds the blacks of what they do not have and the whites get to celebrate it but the blacks do not have anything to celebrate. Douglass says he is speaking for the blacks and the slaves that are treated unfairly.

What does red mean for Juneteenth?

“Red stands for of course the blood that was shed on the pathway to freedom,” TriState Expo spokesperson Leah McKay said. “Traditionally for juneteenth most celebrations celebrate with red food.”

What is the Juneteenth drink?

Red Hibiscus Drink Hibiscus flowers are native to West Africa, and hibiscus drink or ‘tea’ is a popular drink still made there today. It’s been a part of Juneteenth celebrations since the beginning and it’s tangy flavor comes to life when you boil the hibiscus flowers for about 10 mins and add ice and sugar to taste.