Juneteenth: Honoring Ancestors, Advocating for Future Change

On June 19, Blackbaud employees will join others around the United States and the world to observe Juneteenth. This federal U.S. holiday marks the day in 1865 when the last enslaved people in the U.S. learned they had been emancipated—news they received more than two-and-a-half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was announced January 1, 1863.   

We commemorate Juneteenth by remembering Black Americans’ stories of bravery and strength and honoring their hard-earned fight to gain freedom from slavery. Juneteenth is also a time to reflect on the present moment and the progress that’s been made, while recognizing there is still much work to be done and advocating for change. 

This year’s national Juneteenth theme is “Their Wildest Dreams—honoring the history of our ancestors while also highlighting present accomplishments and progress.” In honor of this, Blackbaud employees across the company are participating in several inspiring Juneteenth events including hearing from a community leader who is putting her philanthropic leadership skills to work for local communities and demonstrating how her purpose is aligning with her ancestor’s wildest dreams. Employees will be able to attend a virtual, do-it-yourself cooking demonstration featuring a classic southern staple inspired by the Gullah culture, Shrimp & Grits. U.S. employees will also observe Juneteenth with a paid day off.  

Happy Juneteenth!