Lifestyle

The Meaning of Juneteenth As Told By City Gear's Pam Foley!

Jun 19, 2024

While Juneteenth may be a national celebration of the end of slavery in Civil War-era America, the day takes on a deeper, personal meaning for many within the Black community. For Pam Foley, District Store Manager at City Gear, Juneteenth signifies not just the abolishment of physical chains, but a liberation of the spirit.

"Juneteenth is the end of enslaved mentality and God releasing bondage that was created by man," Pam explains. It's a day that transcends the historical event, becoming a reminder of the strength and perseverance it took Black people to overcome unimaginable adversity.

Pam Foley, City Gear DSM

This perseverance, Pam highlights, became the foundation for a future filled with opportunity. "Juneteenth is important to me because it was the beginning of more opportunities and the definition of hard work and perseverance," she says. It's a day that acknowledges the struggles of the past while celebrating the possibilities of the present.

Pam's celebration of Juneteenth extends beyond personal reflection. "I celebrate this holiday with family by attending an annual celebration in the downtown area of my hometown," she says. It's a chance to come together, share stories, and commemorate a shared history. But Juneteenth also holds a responsibility to educate future generations. "Also, by educating the younger generation on how important this day really means," Pam emphasizes the importance of passing on the legacy of Juneteenth.

Pam Foley, DSM for City Gear taking cell phone selfie

For Pam, Juneteenth is a reminder that freedom is more than just the absence of physical constraints. "Freedom to me is a mindset," she declares. It's the freedom to dream, to speak your voice, and to build a better future. Juneteenth is a celebration of that freedom, a testament to the resilience of the Black community, and an inspiration for generations to come.