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Juneteenth: A Day of Celebration, Reflection, and Hope Feat. Hibbett Voices

Jun 19, 2024

Juneteenth, a day of immense significance for the Black community in the United States, commemorates the end of slavery. But what exactly is Juneteenth, and what does it mean to the people the day celebrates past, present and future? Hibbett team members share their thoughts.

Hibbett store manager, Tiffany Johnson

A Long-Awaited Freedom

A Long-Awaited Freedom Tiffany Johnson, a Hibbett store manager in Katy, Texas, explains the historical context: "Juneteenth marks the day enslaved African Americans in Texas finally learned about their freedom, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation."
This delayed news exemplifies the long and arduous journey to freedom for Black Americans. Juneteenth, then, is a celebration of that hard-won freedom, but also a reminder of the struggles and injustices faced. It's a day to honor the Black community's resilience in the face of adversity.

Hibbett store manager, Joseph Pettigrew

A Legacy of Strength and Community

Joseph Pettigrew, Hibbett Griffin, GA store manager, highlights the significance of Juneteenth for those raised in Black communities. He sees it as a testament to the enduring spirit of his people: "Juneteenth allows people to see the resilience in our people and the value of never giving up hope."
He emphasizes the importance of staying connected to the past and future generations, fostering unity through shared experiences like attending church or family vacations.

Hibbett manager, Ty Austin

Education, Progress, and the Fight for Equality

Jefferson City, Missouri Hibbett store manager Ty Austin feels deeply connected to Juneteenth's legacy. He sees it as a reminder of the sacrifices made by his ancestors, but also the progress achieved: "Juneteenth symbolizes the progress and achievements that can be made through hard work."
A former HBCU student, Ty emphasizes the importance of education and community in breaking barriers and creating opportunities. Juneteenth, for Austin, is also a day to celebrate Black contributions and promote unity.

Hibbett MIT, Kim Washington

The Pursuit of True Freedom

Kimberly Washington, a Hibbett manager-in-training from High Point, NC, underscores the ongoing fight for true freedom. Juneteenth, to her, is a reminder that freedom isn't just about the absence of slavery: "Juneteenth is about freedom in totality...a world that does not discriminate." She quotes activist Emma Lazarus, stating "None of us are free until all of us are free," which captures the essence of Juneteenth for her.

A Day for All Americans

Juneteenth is a celebration specific to the Black community, but its message of freedom and equality resonates with everyone. It's a day to reflect on the history of the United States, acknowledge the struggles of Black Americans, and recommit to the ideals of justice and opportunity for all. As Kimberly Washington envisions, freedom means a world without discrimination and with equal opportunity for all. Juneteenth is a call to action to keep striving for that ideal.

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