At OneBayview, we are dedicated to the transformation and upliftment of our community here in Bayview. This Juneteenth, we reflect on a significant theme: Truth Telling. As we commemorate this day, we embrace the importance of telling the truth about our past—the harms, the struggles, and the injustices that Black people have faced. But equally, we honor the resilience, strength, and enduring spirit of our community.
The Legacy of Juneteenth
Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, marks the day in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, learned of their emancipation—two and a half years after President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. This day is not only a celebration of freedom but also a reminder of the delayed justice and the long journey toward equality.
Truth Telling: Acknowledging the Harms
Our history is filled with stories of profound adversity. The Bayview-Hunters Point neighborhood has its own unique narrative, deeply intertwined with the broader African American experience. From systemic racism to economic disenfranchisement, the harms inflicted upon our community are real and ongoing. Truth Telling requires us to confront these realities honestly and openly.
We must acknowledge the redlining practices that segregated our neighborhoods, the environmental injustices that have impacted our health, and the economic policies that have marginalized our businesses. By understanding these truths, we can better appreciate the resilience that has defined our community for generations.
Celebrating Resilience and Strength
Despite these challenges, the Bayview community has demonstrated remarkable strength and resilience. Our history is rich with stories of individuals and groups who have fought tirelessly for justice, equality, and the betterment of our community.
We celebrate the activists who have advocated for civil rights, the educators who have empowered our youth, and the entrepreneurs who have driven economic growth. Our community’s spirit of perseverance is a testament to the unyielding strength of Black people.
Reflecting and Committing to Change
Juneteenth is a time for reflection. While we may not have been alive during the era of slavery or the civil rights movement, we inherit the responsibility to ensure that such injustices never happen again. We must commit to fighting for equity and justice for all.
At OneBayview, we pledge to continue our work towards community transformation. We invite you to join us in this commitment. Together, we can create a future where every member of our community can thrive—where the truths of our past inform our actions and drive us towards a more just and equitable society.
Moving Forward
As we celebrate Juneteenth this year, let us remember that Truth Telling is not just about recounting past injustices; it is about recognizing and honoring the strength and resilience of our community. It is about committing to a future where equity and justice are not just ideals, but realities.
Join us at OneBayview in this journey of transformation. Let us come together, reflect, and take action to build a brighter future for Bayview. Will you commit to never letting the injustices of the past happen again? Will you stand with us in the fight for equity for all?
Together, we can honor the legacy of Juneteenth and continue to build a community that reflects the truth, resilience, and strength of Black people.
Happy Juneteenth from OneBayview!