Juneteenth 2024: Inspiring Change through Unity and Equity - Cynthia Plouché
Officially recognized in 2021, Juneteenth commemorates the liberation of the last enslaved Africans in Galveston, Texas, nearly two years after the 1863 Emancipation Proclamation. While many of us did not grow up celebrating Juneteenth it is important that we remember these important moments in history for their meaning, impact, and what we can learn from them today.
The adoption of Juneteenth as a federal holiday has significantly encouraged positive dialogue about our complicated history. Ultimately, this increased transparency and awareness pave the way for greater inclusion and a deeper sense of belonging for African Americans. Broadening the circle of inclusion, fosters a broader understanding of our shared history and identity, uniting us as African Americans, people of color, and Americans. There are many stories, but in essence, we form one community.
As we commemorate Juneteenth, we are reminded of the ongoing battle for justice and equity. This day stands as a reminder of the resilience and strength of the African American community and our continuous pursuit of equity. Building an equitable society is not just some ideal but a collective responsibility. Public and social responsibility means actively working toward dismantling oppressive structures and advocating for policies that promote equity, particularly in education, healthcare, and our justice system. This involves challenging systemic barriers and creating inclusive spaces.
In my journey, the importance of belonging became a cornerstone for my work as I took some time to self-assess, decompartmentalize, and deep-dive into my own experience. I allowed myself to be reminded of how and the extent to which I’d been working throughout high school and my career to make sure I felt included, and that I fit in.
Inspired by personal experiences of resilience and the transformative power of mentoring, I started the Alzenia Project. Named after my grandmother, who embodied strength and community spirit, the Alzenia Project was born from a simple desire to bring people together. The future we envision is one where every person feels valued, included, and empowered to reach their fullest potential. We remain steadfast in our commitment to fostering belonging and community spirit.
The Alzenia Project and its grantees stand as a beacon of hope and a model for what is possible when we come together in the spirit of community and belonging. Drawing inspiration from the resilience celebrated on Juneteenth, we continue to work toward a more inclusive and equitable society.
With Juneteenth, we are reminded that creating a sense of belonging is essential to achieving an equitable society. When we feel accepted, valued, and included, we are more likely to thrive and contribute positively to our communities. Belonging means recognizing and appreciating each person for who we are, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has a place where they feel at home. For me the most pivotal moments in my life, my story, collectively represent the evolution of acceptance and belonging as it was given to me, and I now work to create that for others — recognizing that our diversity is our strength. This is at the essence of everything the Alzenia project stands for.
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