Celebrate Juneteenth All Summer

Letter from Meredith

Recently, I’ve been reflecting on what it means to lead in uncertain times. I’m still processing the political assassination of Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark Hortman in Minnesota. Emotions in the workplace can be a difficult challenge to navigate. That’s why I’m grateful that last week was Juneteenth, the day we collectively remember, honor, and celebrate the emancipation of enslaved people in this country. The holiday commemorates June 19, 1865, the day when word reached Black people living in Galveston, Texas, that the Emancipation Proclamation had been signed—two and a half years earlier. It’s also a reminder of the role one person can play. The troops continued to seek out Black people to ensure they knew about our independence.

So, if you ask me, one day a year is not nearly enough time to commemorate something so consequential, and it turns out I’m not alone in my thinking: The first Juneteenth celebrations were months long and took place all over the country. Never forget, Juneteenth was a national holiday long before the federal government officially recognized it in 2021.

Meredith and Jai at the Black Collective Foundation’s Rooted and Radiant Juneteenth event in Minneapolis.

In the spirit of those early Juneteenth gatherings, I’m weaving two guiding principles into my summer:

Honor Your Elders. Sadly, our country has seen unrest before, and spending time with leaders with experience in staying sane while making an impact is critical. My parents’ generation is the key to our history. I commit to reaching out, helping out, and listening to the elders in my community whenever I can.

Take Joy in Black Excellence. I’ll do this on the macro and micro levels by enjoying the work of nationally and internationally known Black artists and leaders, and celebrating the achievements of my local community here in Minnesota.

Consider this your invitation to extend the Juneteenth holiday. How will you celebrate? Hit reply and let me know – I’d love to hear from you!

Thank you, B Suite!

Leverette Weekes is a proud founding member of B Suite, a co-working and community space that centers the needs of Black professionals. As part of their Founding Member Spotlight, they asked Meredith about business, boundaries, and being a working mom.

Check it out!

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