Welcome, welcome, welcome to "Echoes of Freedom," a special Juneteenth edition brought to you by Talk Black & Give Back! I'm your host, Jennifer Nickerson-Turner, and today, we're diving deep into the heart of Juneteenth, exploring its profound meaning of freedom, the rich heritage it celebrates, and the vibrant traditions that make it a day of true liberation. Our focus today? The foundational year of 1865 and the powerful truth it unfolds.Juneteenth. The name itself is a blend of "June" and "nineteenth," but its significance transcends those syllables. It's the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. Many of us know the Emancipation Proclamation was issued by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863, declaring enslaved people in Confederate states free. But here's the crucial fact that anchors Juneteenth: that freedom wasn't immediate, nor was it universal.Imagine, if you will, the vastness of the Confederacy, the chaos of war, and the deliberate withholding of information. Even after the Emancipation Proclamation, enslaved people in many areas remained in bondage, often because the Union Army hadn't yet arrived to enforce the decree. Texas, in particular, became a final stronghold for slavery. It was a place where enslavers from other states often fled with their human property, believing they were beyond the reach of Union forces.This deliberate suppression of information allowed slavery to continue for nearly two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation.At Talk Black & Give Back, we believe in the power of giving, not just monetarily, but through sharing knowledge, amplifying voices, and uplifting our communities. Juneteenth embodies that spirit of collective uplift. It's a day to reflect on the past, acknowledge the struggles, and celebrate the triumphs. It’s a day to recommit to the ongoing work of justice and equality, because as many say, "We're not all the way free, but we ain't where we used to be either."This month, our call to action is to encourage you to seek out Juneteenth celebrations in your communities. Learn more about the history of this holiday, support Black-owned businesses, engage in meaningful conversations, and honor the legacy of freedom.Until next episode, we love you and take good care!

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