In this conversation on the podcast "Get Uncomfortable," Adam Smith and Ersaleen Hope discuss the significance of Juneteenth, America's "real Freedom Day," and its recent adoption and commercialization. Ersaleen Hope shares her experience of how Juneteenth was acknowledged but not truly celebrated or commemorated in her family prior to 2021. She attributes this to a lack of awareness and the tendency to water down the history of racism and oppression in the United States, both in personal upbringing and the education system. The guest also highlights how her husband, being from the Caribbean, wasn't exposed to Juneteenth until he entered the workforce. However, she expresses optimism and pride in the growing recognition of Juneteenth post-2021, including attending Juneteenth festivals and engaging in community work. The host reflects on the complexities of racism and the need for people to have their eyes opened to its pervasive effects. They draw parallels to a scene from the miniseries Roots, where the celebration of Independence Day contrasts sharply with the experience of enslaved individuals. The conversation touches on the challenges of reconciling military service and patriotism with the awareness that freedom and equality were not extended to all on historical American holidays like July 4th. The importance of questioning and being critical of one's country in the pursuit of true patriotism is emphasized, echoing James Baldwin's perspective.
Reparations are an important part of the conversation as well. Reparations can take various forms, such as financial compensation, investments in community development, and targeted policies that address the specific needs of marginalized communities. It's about recognizing the generational impact of slavery, segregation, and discrimination and taking concrete steps to rectify those injustices.
But repair goes beyond just policies and financial compensation. It requires a fundamental shift in the culture and mindset of the country. It means actively dismantling systemic racism and white supremacy, challenging implicit biases, and fostering a more inclusive and equitable society for all. It requires individuals, institutions, and the government to commit to long-term, sustained efforts to address and rectify the deep-seated inequities that exist.
It won't be an easy or quick process, but it's necessary if we truly want to achieve a just and equitable society. It requires an ongoing commitment to self-reflection, education, and action at all levels of society. And most importantly, it requires listening to the voices and experiences of those who have been marginalized and centering their needs and perspectives in the process of repair.
Get Uncomfortable with Adam A. Smith is produced in partnership between Adam A. Smith and Rachel Hanson.
If you're interested in sponsoring Get Uncomfortable please feel free to reach out to Adam (adam@hearadamspeak.com) or Rachel (rachelhanson10@gmail.com).
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