Juneteenth and Jawonio: Celebrating Freedom and Opportunity for All
"The struggles for racial justice and disability rights are deeply intertwined," she says. "Both movements emphasize the importance of dismantling barriers and creating a society that values all people, regardless of race, ability, or any other factor."
Dr. Kim Nielsen, Director of the Institute on Disability at Temple University
Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, marks the arrival of news of the abolition of slavery in Texas in 1865, the last enslaved people in the Confederacy to be freed. It’s a day of commemoration, reflection, and celebration, but its significance extends far beyond a single historical event.
The fight for racial equality embodied by Juneteenth shares important parallels with the disability rights movement in America. Both movements challenge existing power structures and advocate for equal rights and opportunities for marginalized groups.
Shared Struggles and Strategies
- Fighting Discrimination: Both Black Americans and people with disabilities at Jawonio and around the country have faced historical and ongoing discrimination in areas like employment, education, housing and access to public spaces.
- Building Community: Both movements have relied on community building, advocacy, and legal action to achieve progress. The concept of “crip” identity, similar to Black identity, emphasizes pride and solidarity within the disability community.
- Accessibility and Inclusion: Both movements advocate for creating a more accessible and inclusive society. Just as Juneteenth celebrates the liberation of Black people, the disability rights movement fights for a world where people with disabilities can participate fully.
The Road Ahead
Juneteenth is a reminder that the fight for freedom is ongoing. While both the Black community and the disability community have made significant strides, disparities and inequalities remain. This day of commemoration, reflection, and celebration signifies far more than a single historical event; it represents a broader struggle for freedom and equality.
To Learn More:
The National Juneteenth Observance Foundation: www.thejuneteenthfoundation.com
The American Association of People with Disabilities: www.aapd.com
