Peace & Planet News

Black Joy Origins of Memorial Day!

The first Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, occurred in 1865 in Charleston, South Carolina. Formerly enslaved Black people dug up the mass graves of Union soldiers that fought for the end of slavery, and provided respectful individualized graves for them . Afterward, in the spirit of Black Joy, they held a parade, sang songs, and gathered together with food to acknowledge the lives of the fallen soldiers. Memorial Day is seen as one of the most patriotic American holidays, and in true American tradition, it has erased the contributions and hardships of Black people and other people of color.

With celebrations like Juneteenth, we strive to continue to bring true American history to the forefront while holding Black joy as the common historical thread that allows Black communities to thrive despite all we face.

 

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