Juneteenth: Embracing Freedom with GigWorx!

As a company that values diversity, inclusion, and equality, GigWorx is proud to recognize the significance of Juneteenth. This federal holiday marks a pivotal moment in American history and highlights the ongoing struggle for freedom and justice for Black Americans.

How did Juneteenth come to be?

Juneteenth is a holiday that commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. According to the United States Capitol Historical Society, on June 19, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas with news that the Civil War had ended and that all enslaved individuals in Texas were now free.

This announcement came over two years after President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation, which had declared that all slaves in Confederate-held territory were to be freed. However, due to the lack of Union presence in Texas, the proclamation was not enforced until Granger's arrival.

Celebration

Juneteenth has since become an important holiday for Americans and is celebrated with parades, picnics, and family gatherings. It is a day to reflect on the progress made towards equality and justice, but also a reminder of the work still needed to fully realize those ideals. Many Black Americans use Juneteenth as a day of education and activism, to continue the fight against systemic racism and inequality. 

Diversity and Inclusion

By taking the time to honor its history, we are not only recognizing the resilience and strength of the Black community but also acknowledging the role that systemic racism played in our nation's past and present. We believe that celebrating Juneteenth is a crucial step towards bringing the rich history of Black Americans into the center of both our history and identity, and we are committed to doing our part in promoting diversity and inclusivity in our platform and beyond.