What is open on juneteenth?

Open on Juneteenth refers to a movement or initiative aimed at recognizing and observing the Juneteenth holiday. Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, is celebrated on June 19th each year and commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States.

Open on Juneteenth represents the acknowledgment of the historical significance of Juneteenth and the desire to give it the same level of recognition as other national holidays. This movement advocates for organizations, businesses, and institutions to remain open and operational on Juneteenth, allowing employees and individuals to celebrate and commemorate the day.

The rationale behind the open stance is to encourage broader awareness and education about Juneteenth, as it is a pivotal moment in American history that is often overlooked or not given the same prominence as other emancipation-related events, such as the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. By remaining open and recognizing Juneteenth as a significant day, it allows for conversations, learning opportunities, and cultural celebrations to take place.

Open on Juneteenth also aims to foster inclusivity and promote racial equity within organizations and society at large. By observing and acknowledging the holiday, businesses and institutions can demonstrate their commitment to supporting diversity, equality, and the cultural heritage of African Americans. Additionally, it enables employees who wish to participate in community events, volunteer activities, or personal celebrations associated with Juneteenth to do so without facing any negative consequences or work-related barriers.

In recent years, the movement to keep establishments open on Juneteenth has been gaining momentum, with an increasing number of organizations announcing their commitment to observing the holiday and providing opportunities for employees to engage in related activities. It is part of a broader effort to recognize and rectify historical injustices and promote social and racial justice within the United States.