Dear Friend,
This Juneteenth, join us in celebrating this crucially important day in American history and reflecting on its profound meaning for all communities, including our own.
Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, commemorates the 1865 emancipation of the last enslaved African Americans in the United States. It holds deep historical significance as a reminder of the struggles for freedom, equality, and justice that have shaped our nation.
Last week, I had the pleasure of attending President Biden and First Lady Dr. Biden’s Juneteenth Concert at the White House, a phenomenal celebration of community, culture, and music. It was an honor to be invited to the very first White House Juneteenth celebration, just two years after it became a federal holiday, and I was pleased to represent Emgage at the People's House. |
As we celebrate Juneteenth, we honor the contributions of Black enslaved Muslims, the first Muslims in this country, that practiced Islam in America despite unimaginably difficult circumstances. As we work to pave the way for a better future for Muslim American communities, and all communities, we draw from these original Muslim Americans' legacy of resilience and fortitude every single day.
Emgage is more dedicated than ever to empowering African American Muslims. Our African American Community Engagement program works to ensure that Black Muslim communities have the resources needed to thrive, be civically engaged, and have their voices represented. This includes advocating for policies specific to this community, hiring Black organizers in state chapters, and hosting events to highlight the work Black Muslim leaders do across all sectors.
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Today, let us remember that our shared values transcend any individual community or identity. Together, we can continue to build bridges, dismantle barriers, and work toward a future of inclusivity, equality, and justice for all. We encourage you to join us in commemorating Juneteenth by participating in local events, engaging in dialogue, and amplifying the voices of those advocating for racial equity.
Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed Juneteenth filled with hope, joy, and renewed commitment to our collective journey. |
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| Sincerely, Salima Suswell National Senior Advisor, Emgage |
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