Juneteenth and Supporting the Black Community
Juneteenth, a holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States, has gained increased recognition in recent years. As we celebrate this significant day, it is crucial to reflect on the ongoing struggles faced by the Black community, including those within the wedding industry.
Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, marks the 159th anniversary of when Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce that all enslaved people were free.
Despite the celebrations and progress made, systemic racism continues to affect the Black community, including those in the wedding industry. Black couples may face discrimination and microaggressions when planning their weddings, while Black-owned businesses often struggle to gain exposure and access to resources.
In June 2020, following the George Floyd protests, displays of support from the community such as this mural that was painted (and despite some early graffiti), is still showcased at a downtown convenience store wall. As a wedding community and leaders, Santa Barbara Wedding Style hosted a discussion featuring four female wedding business owners who shared their experiences and the support systems needed to drive change in the industry.
To create a more inclusive and equitable wedding industry, we must consistently educate ourselves and take action to support the Black community. Here are some ways to get involved:
Attend and support Juneteenth celebrations in your area, such as Santa Barbara's "Joy for the People" event.
Amplify Black voices in the wedding industry by featuring Black couples and vendors on your blog and social media.
Hire and recommend Black-owned businesses for weddings and events.
Educate yourself and your audience about the history of racism and its ongoing impact on the Black community.
Donate to organizations that support the Black community, such as the NAACP, Black Lives Matter, or local Black-owned business associations.
This past weekend, Healing for Justice organized the 7th annual Juneteenth celebration in Santa Barbara, "Joy for the People," which honored the late Sojourner Rolle and showcased Black culture, talent, and joy in the county.
As Simone Ruskcamp, co-founder of Juneteenth Santa Barbara, stated, "We will continue to celebrate every year until black people can exercise their full freedom in this country." We must keep asking ourselves important questions: How can we do better? What will it take for things to change? Who can help us keep moving forward? Where can we seek guidance to support this movement?
Resources for Further Learning and Support:
Santa Barbara's Juneteenth Celebration: "Joy for the People"
NAACP Santa Barbara Branch
Black Lives Matter Santa Barbara
Black-Owned Businesses in Santa Barbara County
On this Juneteenth, let us celebrate the progress made while acknowledging the work that still needs to be done. As members of the wedding industry, we have a responsibility to create a more inclusive and equitable space for all. By supporting the Black community, amplifying their voices, and consistently educating ourselves and others, we can help drive lasting change. Together, let us commit to being allies and working towards a future where Black lives are truly valued and celebrated in all aspects of life, including the wedding industry.
Black Lives Matter Resources:
Hello Gorgeous Models of Diversity for Photo Shoots
White Privilege: Unpacking the Invisible Knapsack by Peggy McIntosh
What Can We Do As Wedding Pros?
Take action on this awakening
Be an ally
Speak up
Own it
Embrace diversity
How Can We Support Santa Barbara?
Here’s a List of Santa Barbara’s Black-Owned Businesses from The Indepentent, a local editorial