Top 10 Black Tech Innovators

Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, marks a turning point in American history—the day in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, finally learned of their freedom—two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. Today, Juneteenth is more than a commemoration of emancipation. It's a vibrant celebration of Black culture, excellence, resilience, and the ongoing fight for equality.

Whether you're celebrating personally, organizing a community event, or just learning more, here are 10 powerful ways to honor Juneteenth and uplift Black voices.

1. Learn the History of Juneteenth

Start with education. Understand the significance of June 19, 1865, and how it impacted the course of U.S. history. Read books, watch documentaries, or listen to podcasts by Black historians and scholars. A few recommendations:

• "Juneteenth" by Ralph Ellison

• "On Juneteenth" by Annette Gordon-Reed

• The 1619 Project (podcast & book)

2. Support Black-Owned Businesses

Economic empowerment is vital to celebrating Black excellence. Use Juneteenth as an opportunity to discover and support Black-owned businesses in your area or online. Whether it's food, fashion, art, or services—your dollar makes a difference.

3. Attend or Organize a Juneteenth Celebration

Join a local parade, cookout, or cultural event—or organize your own. Juneteenth celebrations often include music, storytelling, spoken word, and traditional soul food. These gatherings create space for reflection, joy, and unity.

4. Share Stories of Black Excellence

Use your platform to spotlight Black innovators, leaders, artists, and changemakers—past and present. Whether it's social media, your blog, or a conversation with friends, sharing these stories helps amplify the rich legacy of Black achievement.

5. Engage in Activism and Advocacy

Freedom is ongoing. Get involved with organizations fighting for racial justice, voting rights, and criminal justice reform. Donate, volunteer, sign petitions, and raise awareness. True celebration includes action.

6. Host a Juneteenth Book Club or Film Screening

Gather friends, family, or coworkers for a Juneteenth-themed discussion. Choose a book or film that explores Black history, identity, or social justice. A few ideas:

• "13th" (Netflix documentary by Ava DuVernay)

• "Hidden Figures"

• "The Color Purple"

• "Between the World and Me" by Ta-Nehisi Coates

7. Cook and Share Traditional African American Cuisine

Food is culture. Prepare a meal with dishes that honor African American culinary traditions—think collard greens, black-eyed peas, cornbread, BBQ, and red drinks (symbolizing resilience and sacrifice). Share recipes and stories over a meal.

8. Support Black Artists and Creators

Celebrate Black excellence in the arts by buying art, music, books, or handmade goods created by Black artists. Attend virtual or local exhibitions, concerts, or theater productions that showcase Black creativity and culture.

9. Create or Visit a Juneteenth Memorial or Installation

Many cities now have public art or memorials dedicated to Juneteenth. If your community doesn’t, consider working with local organizations or schools to create one—a mural, monument, or garden that tells the story of freedom.

10. Reflect, Rest, and Recommit

Juneteenth is not just a celebration—it’s a moment for deep reflection. Reflect on the sacrifices of ancestors, the current state of racial justice, and your role in the ongoing journey toward equality. Rest. Recommit to building a more just, inclusive future.