What Juneteenth Flag Means & Represents
Be aware that Juneteenth is a long-standing observance of the abolishment of slavery, with the transition of authority signifying emancipation. A gesture of inclusion, businesses can pay homage to the momentous occasion by flying the Juneteenth flag, though it's important to understand its symbolic significance. Keep reading to uncover the meaning of the flag and why it ought to be proudly flown.
Understand the Burst
The burst is in the center of the flag, it is a star with a jagged outline.
This jagged line can get thought of as a nova or bursting cloud. It's meant to represent new beginnings for African Americans in every state. Learning about the Juneteenth flag meaning can help bring this burst to life.
Years passed after the Emancipation Proclamation got signed and some slaves started losing hope. Ben Haith used this burst to show how excited and overwhelmed these people were. They were ready to be free and were bursting from the seams.
Freedom was inevitable, and people can see that with the star of freedom popping through the barrier.
Marking the Date
If you noticed the date on some versions of the Juneteenth flag, you need to learn their significance.
The historical date included on these flags is June 19, 1865. This is the date when Union Troops traveled to Galveston Bay, Texas, and freed hundreds of thousands of slaves. Although it took time to adjust and there were still technically slaves, it was a step in the right direction.
An executive decree helped these people and made a mark on the history of America. It is still an important day to celebrate.
Since the original flag doesn't include the historical date, you might have trouble finding it. You can purchase Juneteenth flags with the date included on the right-hand side. This display can help teach others more about the holiday.
On the topic of important dates, you should also know that Juneteenth didn't become a federal holiday until June 17, 2021.
Star
Does the star remind you of a specific state's flag in America?
If you're thinking of Texas, you are spot on. The star in the Juneteenth flag is used to represent Texas since it's where the Union arrived. It was declared that slaves will be free moving forward, but some of the enslavers withheld information.
People moved to the Lone Star State under the impression that it was a safe haven from slavery and abuse. Once news about Galveston got out, African Americans began celebrating.
Another perspective on what this feature symbolizes is new freedom and people with a new star. Music, barbeques, and prayer services were used to transfer the joy and hope from the star to reality. Texas became the first place to organize and celebrate Jubilee Day and Juneteenth!
The star is a necessary symbol on this flag since it shows the union between African Americans and the state of Texas. It also helps people learn about the rich and long history between the two.
Learn About the Creator
Ben Haith made such a statement with his designs, that they became the symbol for Juneteenth.
In 1997, Ben created the first version of the Juneteenth flag, with help from Lisa Graf. It has since been modified in 2000 and 2007. It wasn't until 2007 that the flags included the original date marking Juneteenth.
Haith's flag design is the most popular and many businesses fly it alongside their American flag all of June.
Color Scheme
The Juneteenth flag is quite patriotic and consists of only three colors.
Red, white, and blue are used in this flag, which emphasizes the importance of freedom in the United States. Many people are wrongly under the impression that the flag is red, black, and green, however, this is inaccurate.
Another type of Juneteenth flag you encounter might come in different colors. Although the original flag is red, white, and blue, you can also find versions in red, black, and green. The red is meant to represent the blood, the green to represent soil and the black for prosperity.
If you want to hoist the proper flag, make sure yours comes in red, white, and blue. These are the colors for the American way of life with liberty and justice.
Arc
If you look at the Juneteenth flag, you will notice that the flag is divided laterally.
The line differentiating both sides is meant to represent hope. Hope was all that people had when slavery was still prominent. The arc acts as a horizon on the flag that African Americans looked forward to. It's similar to a silver lining, however, there isn't a defined color separating the red and blue.
Depending on the style of flag you get, some of the arcs are straight across or not as arched. Make sure that when you go to hang your flag, the blue is running along the top with the red below.
It may be difficult to see the arc when the flag is waving in the wind, but up close, this is a beautiful detail.
Do You Understand the Juneteenth Flag Meaning?
Learning about the Juneteenth flag meaning can help you connect with employees and the community.
Bringing awareness to an important holiday is important if you want more people to learn. When people in the community see you hanging a Juneteenth flag, they will think of your business as an ally. Don't be afraid to let this flag float in the breeze, especially if you want people to feel welcome and safe at your company.
Flags are a wonderful and simple way to show support and make a statement without having to say anything.
Make sure you check out our editorial page for more content about showing pride and support to communities!
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