Essay
There are numerous pros for having Juneteenth recognized as a state holiday. Firstly, and most importantly, African Americans are now able to have a day to feel appreciated by all. This is extremely important because many African Americans face mistreatment and racism, which leads them feeling hurt and not important. Not only does Juneteenth make African Americans feel cherished but it also spreads awareness of the injustice and depressing history surrounding African Americans. Lastly, Juneteenth can be used as something that African Americans can look upon to be proud of because of how far they have come. "Juneteenth is important, because it reminds us of what we came through and what we can achieve.(NMAAHC) . As the National Museum of African American History and Culture additionally adds as to why Juneteenth is important "it allows each generation to reflect on what more there is to do" (NMAAHC).
Now for the cons, although I don’t believe there are many at all. The black agenda report, a website and news site states "Juneteenth Turns what was a peoples’ celebration into an occasion for opportunism and window dressing has actually damaged the cause of Black liberation and the understanding of history" (The Black Agenda Report). Another negative of having Juneteenth recognized as a state holiday is that it may spark controversy with people that believe that African Americans don’t deserve a day for themselves. To summarize what I mean, Juneteenth could become political which is what nobody wants. Some people also believe that Juneteenth is taking away from other important things. "A children's museum was condemned for serving as a Juneteenth watermelon stand" (Black Agenda Report). Another possible con of Juneteenth is that it can be exploited by companys and politcians.
References:
“Why Is Juneteenth Important?” National Museum of African American History and Culture, 31 May 2023, nmaahc.si.edu/explore/stories/why-juneteenth-important.
Kimberley, Margaret, and 15 Jun 2023. “The Problem with Juneteenth.” Black Agenda Report, 15 June 2023, www.blackagendareport.com/problem-juneteenth.
