Honoring Juneteenth: Reflecting, Learning, and Continuing the Story

Jessica McRae

Hi Blackbaud Community, 

Tomorrow is Juneteenth (June 19) and employees in the US have been taking the week to reflect on a significant moment in history and its continued relevance. 

Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865—the day when the last enslaved individuals in the United States learned they were free, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued.  

As part of this year’s observance, Blackbaud employees are participating in an educational webinar exploring Juneteenth through both historical and forward-looking perspectives and a virtual volunteer opportunity connecting individuals experiencing food insecurity with local resources. 

To continue the conversation, watch Blackbaud’s latest “What Fuels You?” Vodcast episode featuring Andrew Troup, Chief Impact Officer, YourCause from Blackbaud® and Dr. Tonya Matthews, CEO & Executive Director of the International African American Museum. Together, they discuss the importance of preserving and sharing African American history and culture for future generations. 

Juneteenth invites all of us to observe in ways that are meaningful—whether that’s through local events, community connection, or supporting the work in other ways. 

How is your organization observing Juneteenth this year? We’d love to hear how you’re engaging your community or honoring this important moment in history.  

Blackbaud is proud to recognize Juneteenth as a US holiday and to provide US employees with a paid day off on June 19 to reflect, learn, and observe in a meaningful way. 

Elizabeth Campi

I wore my Blackbaud Juneteenth t-shirt last Saturday and as I was entering a cafe in my new neighborhood, a woman said "I like your shirt" and I really appreciated that. I've worn it many times with no comment and it felt great to have this small connection in a new place!