It is now the month of June. We have Father’s Day, Juneteenth, Black Music Month and LGBTQ+ Pride Month among other awareness days. These are events/people that don’t get much recognition. The good fathers who are actively raising their kids. The realization that with the Emancipation Proclamation to end slavery in 1863, the last Black people to find out wasn’t until June 19th, 1865. The legacy and many contributions of people who represent the LGBTQ+ in our society. In the music you hear today, the influence of Black music. Why is it that this world easily overlooks different people or events that are important in history. It would be nice if the people and events under these categories be recognized for their influence.
Now, mothers are the greatest and the reason for carrying and nurturing a life before it enters this world and after. But when you have a good father, they help carry a child into knowing how to love another person. When they show their daughters love, it teaches how they should be treated in intimate relationships. When they show their sons how to treat a woman this brings about improved cycles of great relationships in the world.
Until the murder of George Floyd on May 25, 2020 happened before our eyes, many did not know of Juneteenth. Our government made it known by attempting to right the wrongs of police brutality against Black people in the U.S. I can admit I knew of the holiday, but never celebrated it. Even though America honors July 4th 1776 as Freedom Day, that date meant nothing to the Black Americans who kept enslaved for many years after. After seeing Mr. Floyd’s death on video. When realizing why Black Americans have been protesting inequality in law. The day June 19th, was finally recognized as a federal holiday.
Last year, hip hop celebrated its 50th anniversary and until this day many have not recognized the culture’s influence around the world. The breakdancing, the beats, and fashion are amongst the many components that have been influential. Also, take Rock and Roll and the Blues. Many artist such as Little Richard, Chuck Berry, James Brown, and Big Mama Thornton, influenced some of the earlier mainstream artist of the genre who were not Black.
Lastly, but certainly not least, the influence of the LGBTQ+. Many who identify as such had to hide in order to be accepted in the world. There are many people who even sacrificed love in order to hide their identity. Bayard Rustin who identified as a gay man, was not mentioned for his contributions to the 1963 March on Washington.
So, for the month of June, we will make sure to recognize those who have gone so long without getting the flowers they deserve and the events that have been monumental throughout our history.