Juneteenth

Juneteenth is an African-American holiday that occurs each year on June 19th. It began as a celebration of the end of slavery: On June 19, 1865, the last slaves in America were finally freed. The name Juneteenth is a combination of June + nineteenth.

Today African Americans celebrate their freedom and their heritage, with music, dances, speeches, stories, games, and fun. They have picnics with traditional foods and make traditional crafts.

But more than 150 years after emancipation, the nation is still struggling with the issues of systemic racism and injustice. A year ago, we had widespread protests across the U.S. after the murder of George Floyd by Minneapolis police officers, and we began another national debate. Many white people got jolted out of their comfortable apathy and took an oath to be anti-racists.

Juneteenth is a reminder to enjoy the freedoms we have, and work for justice and freedom for all people everywhere. Today I celebrate Juneteenth as an apology, and a prayer. 

Agenda:

1. Talk about the violence that black people are enduring

2. Watch a Defunding Police video

2. Make fried catfish, biscuits, and greens

1. Talk about the violence that black people are enduring:
I've come a long way since last year at this time. I've read several books and been in a discussion group on Anti-racism. I've examined my own "white silence" and understand why it is so harmful.

0. White silence about race allows racism and white supremacy to be maintained and normalized. It’s important for those of us who are white to break white silence and have honest conversations with our friends, family, and neighbors. These conversations can help us find others to build with and change the minds of people who disagree with us about racial justice. For those of us who are white, it’s easier to check out and not talk about policing or racial justice.

2. Watch a Defunding Police Video

This year I hope to get clearer on what Defunding Police means and why it is so important. I started by watching this introduction to defunding the police video made by Mariame Kaba and Project Nia.

3. Fried Catfish

Ingredients:

• 6 catfish fillets
• 1 tsp. black pepper
• 2 tsp. salt
• 3/4 tsp. onion powder
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1 tsp. paprika
• Saltine crackers
• 1 c. vegetable oil

1. Rinse fillets under cold running water and pat dry with towels.

2. Combine spices in a small bowl. Sprinkle seasoning mixture over both sides of the fillets. 

3. Crush the crackers into a fine meal, and apply to the fish by gently pressing on both sides of your fillets. Place fillets on a plate and refrigerate for about 1 hour to allow meal to coat properly.

4. Heat vegetable oil in a cast iron skillet or large heavy skillet. Fry the fillets on both sides until they are golden brown, turning only once. Allow fillets to drain on paper towels and serve immediately.