This year, to celebrate Juneteenth and Pride Month, we took the opportunity to learn about the heritage, inspiration and legacy of these two communities.
These are highlights from how we celebrated Juneteenth and Pride Month and fostered freedom, equality and authenticity.
Juneteenth: Celebrating Freedom and Justice
Juneteenth, recognized as a federal holiday in recent years, is a significant commemoration that marks the official end of slavery in the United States. It holds great importance in Black and African American communities, often referred to as “America’s Second Independence Day.”
In recognition of this day, COMPLY offices closed for the day.
Of Juneteenth, COMPLY CEO Amy Kadomatsu said, “I hope you’ll join me in taking time to reflect on what freedom looks like today, how far we’ve come in the last 150+ years, and most importantly, how much more we can do to ensure freedom, equality and authentic belonging for all.”
Terrance Mayo’s Learning Session: Intersectionality, Inclusion and Allyship
On Tuesday, June 13, COMPLY hosted a captivating learning session with Terrance Mayo, a Blue Level Facilitator and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion expert. The session delved into the intricate interconnections between the Black experience and the Queer experience, shedding light on the historical and cultural contexts of both the Pride Movement and Juneteenth.
Mayo shared profound insights during the session, emphasizing the ongoing challenges faced by Black LGBTQIA+ individuals, who often encounter intersectional oppression both in the United States and around the world.
Acknowledging the importance of allyship, Mayo said, “Black LGBTQIA+ people continue to experience intersectional oppression within our country and around the world. It is important that we listen, learn and show up as allies in the workplace and our communities.”
This learning experience served as a safe and interactive space for participants to ask questions, gain knowledge and understand practical ways to combat anti-Blackness and homophobia.
Unity and progress: Coming together as an organization
COMPLY’s decision to recognize Juneteenth and organize this learning session reflects our commitment to fostering a culture of inclusivity and belonging within the organization. The month of June provided employees opportunities to come together, learn from one another and strengthen their understanding of diversity and intersectionality. Such initiatives not only empower individuals but also create a positive ripple effect that extends beyond the workplace, contributing to more inclusive communities.
Through collective efforts and continued support for marginalized communities, we can strive for a more inclusive and just future.