This year’s CA/HI NAACP Juneteenth theme was,  “Celebrating the Journey of Freedom”,  and across the state, many branches celebrated through music, song, dance, spoken word and joyous gatherings. 

A critical aspect of our community’s freedom is our health and multiple branches focused on using the day to spread awareness. The San Luis Obispo Branch hosted a screening of Judas and the Black Messiah and led a health based discussion. The San Diego County Branch hosted a wellness festival and provided access to  free COVID-19 vaccinations. Other branches hosted drives, marches, pop-ups, and had critical conversations related to health and wellness in our communities. 

Although Juneteenth is one day out of the year, it is an opportunity to come together for a renewed sense of hope and inspiration around togetherness, community and liberation for our people. We urge you to continue advocating for equity, equality of rights and freedom. 

A few ways to take action: 

• Get involved in the conversation on redistricting by telling the California Citizens Redistricting Commission more about your neighborhood. Visit the website here. 
• Sign the petition urging the Biden Administration to cancel 50K in federal student loans
• Spread the word on the 5 billion dollars in COVID-19 rent relief(and apply if you are eligible). Information on eligibility for renters and landlords  here.