Juneteenth — also known as Freedom Day — commemorates the June 19, 1865 announcement of the abolition of slavery in the state of Texas. This news arrived two and a half years after President Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation.
Like many milestones in the fight for equality, it arrived late.
The racial equity fight has strong roots in Alameda County — and is inextricably and irrefutably woven into our own mission. Today, we are honoring the powerful stories of Black community members who have led this fight and forged the path to justice that we are still walking today.
There’s so much history that sits inside this church. It’s where the Black Panthers first started the Free Breakfast for Children Program. Feeding children was a fundamental part of the Panthers’ history and legacy. Read more.
Every Wednesday outside of Grace Baptist Church in Oakland, you’ll see Lola Hardy’s smiling face. She’s been the director of the church’s food pantry for 21 years. Growing up in Texas, Miss Lola shares what Juneteenth means to her.
If you’ve volunteered at ACCFB, you’ve probably seen this poster of Mack Lyons in our warehouse. Mr. Lyons’s work continues to inspire our staff and volunteers each day. Learn more.
Feeling inspired this Juneteenth and want to get involved in shaping the future of your community? Here are 3 ways you can get started today from County Supervisor Nate Miley! Read More.
Art is a powerful tool against oppression. Emory Douglas, Minister of Culture for the Black Panthers, used his skills as a designer and artist to boldly communicate the organization’s message to wider audiences in a beautiful and accessible way. Today you can see Mr. Douglas’s work in the Oakland Palestine Solidarity Mural on 26th Street. Read More
We must look at systems that got us to this moment of action. Thank you, Alameda County Supervisor Keith Carson, for believing in a better future for Alameda County. Read Supervisor Carson’s full Juneteenth statement here.
“Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” – James Baldwin. Hunger disproportionately impacts People of Color. Confronting these issues can be challenging and uncomfortable – but necessary. Our staff started a reading list of books and articles that have been helpful in expanding our policy fight, improving how we communicate, and working on becoming a more inclusive Alameda County Community Food Bank, where everyone belongs. Read More
