Juneteenth and Jewish Values: A Journey Towards Freedom and Justice
Our country’s second Independence Day, Juneteenth, marks the end of slavery. It was declared a federal holiday in 2021, bringing national recognition to this long-celebrated African American holiday.
On “Freedom’s Eve,” the night of January 1, 1863, Abolitionists and enslaved and free African Americans gathered nationwide for the first Watch Night services, awaiting the enactment of the Emancipation Proclamation. At midnight, news arrived that all enslaved people in Confederate states were legally free.
However, freedom was not immediate for all. Even though the Emancipation Proclamation was effective, it could not be implemented in places still under Confederate control. As a result, enslaved people in the westernmost state of Texas wouldn’t be free until June 19, 1865, when Union troops arrived in Galveston Bay. It was then that more than 250,000 enslaved individuals were finally freed by executive decree.
For the Jewish community, Juneteenth resonates deeply with our own historical and spiritual narratives. Every year during Passover, we retell the Exodus story, celebrating our deliverance from slavery in Egypt. This story of liberation and redemption is central to our identity and values. It reminds us of our own journey from oppression to freedom and our enduring commitment to justice.
Juneteenth is an opportunity for us to reflect on our shared values and experiences. Here are some ways in which Juneteenth ties into Jewish values and history:
Herut (Freedom)
The story of the Exodus and celebration of Juneteenth both center on the theme of liberation. For Jews, the journey from slavery to freedom is not just a historical event but a continuing call to action. We are reminded of the Torah’s commandment to “remember that you were slaves in Egypt,” and to apply this memory to advocate for the freedom of all people. Juneteenth invites us to honor this value by supporting the Black community and ongoing efforts for racial justice.
Tzedek (Justice)
Judaism teaches us to pursue justice actively (Tzedek, tzedek, tirdof). Juneteenth is a stark reminder of the systemic injustices Black people have faced and continue to face. As a community that has also experienced persecution and discrimination, we are called to stand in solidarity with those who fight against inequality and oppression. Juneteenth is a reminder to recommit to social justice and work towards a society where everyone is treated with fairness and respect.
Yizkor (Remembrance)
Just as we educate our children about Exodus during Passover and observe Holocaust Remembrance, we must also educate ourselves and future generations about the significance of Juneteenth. Understanding the history and impact of slavery, Reconstruction, and the Civil Rights Movement helps us recognize the roots of current social, economic, and racial inequalities. Through education and remembrance, we honor those who suffered and those who continue to strive for justice, ensuring their stories are never forgotten.
Kehillah (Community)
Juneteenth celebrations often bring communities together to reflect, educate, and celebrate. Similarly, Jewish traditions place a strong emphasis on community support. Participating in, or supporting, Juneteenth events is one way we can stand with the Black community and reinforce the idea that the fight for justice is a shared endeavor.
Tikvah (Hope)
Both Black and Jewish experiences are marked by profound resilience and hope in the face of adversity. The determination to overcome oppression and build a better future is the common thread that binds our narratives. Juneteenth is a celebration of that resilience and an affirmation of hope for a future where freedom and justice for all prevails. It reminds us that progress is possible, and every step towards justice is meaningful.
As we celebrate Juneteenth, let us reflect on its significance not only as a historical milestone, but as a call to action that aligns our deepest values. By recognizing the connections between Juneteenth and Jewish history, we can deepen our commitment to justice, solidarity, and the ongoing pursuit of freedom for all.
Wishing all who call our community home a Happy Juneteenth.
