By Glenn Singleton—June 15, 2023
Taking a national pause to mark the end of chattel slavery in the United States invites a Courageous Conversation® about the enduring campaign for freedom and racial justice in this imperfect union.
The Juneteenth National Independence Day Act, signed into law in 2021 by President Joseph Biden, commemorates a pivotal moment in American history. However, the liberation announced on June 19, 1865, in addition to being simultaneously late and premature, reminds our nation of the protracted struggle of African American people against systemic racism—a battle still active today.
Prominent figures in this struggle, like Malcolm X and Audre Lorde, offer valuable insights into the nature and navigation of the fight. Malcolm X challenged the systems of White supremacy through his astute insight and unwavering commitment to Black autonomy and self-determination. Audre Lorde, a self-described “Black, lesbian, mother, warrior, poet,” utilized her inspired verse to confront and address injustices related to race, gender, and sexuality.
Their ambitions highlight the significance of consciousness, passion, and engagement—all vital qualities of Courageous Conversation®. Malcolm X’s discerning words, “If you’re not careful, the newspapers will have you hating the people who are being oppressed and loving the people who are doing the oppressing,” challenge us to scrutinize the dominant narratives we’re fed and initiate crucial dialogues about racial beliefs and power.
In the present climate, we observe a resurgence of efforts to undermine the rights and freedoms of marginalized communities. Voting rights restrictions disproportionately affecting people of color, legislation limiting LGBTQIA+ freedoms, and encroachments on women’s autonomy… particularly on women of color…are increasingly prevalent.
These contemporary challenges remind us that “freedom is a constant struggle.” They compel us to usher in Courageous Conversation® about these issues…examining their roots and brainstorming collective solutions. In the spirit of Audre Lorde’s words, “Your silence will not protect you,” we must speak our truth to power and demand change.
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