Juneteenth & Culturally Connected Foods
Juneteenth, an abbreviation for ‘June Nineteenth’, commemorates the moment in 1865 on June 19th when federal forces reached Galveston, Texas, assuming authority over the state and guaranteeing the liberation of all enslaved individuals. The troops’ arrival occurred two and a half years after Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation.
Juneteenth is considered the longest-running African American holiday and became a federal holiday in 2021. Since that moment in Galveston, Juneteenth has been a holiday where communities have honored ancestors, acknowledged their sacrifices and honored the accomplishments and contributions of African Americans to the country. Juneteenth provides a chance to educate and increase awareness regarding the history of slavery, the challenges faced by African Americans and the persistent battle against systemic racism. This day empowers people to participate in discussions, advocate for equality and strive towards forgoing a fairer society.
Like other holidays, Juneteenth allows people to celebrate through festivals, cookouts, parades, etc. With celebrations, comes food! Here are some traditional food and beverage items that are symbolic of African American heritage and history:
- Red foods: Red foods such as red velvet cake, strawberry soda, fruit punch, red fruits/vegetables and red beans & rice are symbolic of resilience, strength and perseverance in African American culture.
- Sweet potato pie: This common southern dessert has deep roots in African American culinary heritage. Sweet potatoes were a staple ingredient that enslaved Africans cultivated and utilized in various dishes due to their abundance and nutritional value.
- Corn: During times of enslavement, corn was a readily available and affordable ingredient that could be used in various dishes. Common dishes include cornbread, grits and classic corn-on-the-cob.
- Collard greens: Collard greens hold traditional significance for Juneteenth and African American cuisine for many reasons. Collard greens are hearty and plentiful, which made them a practical choice for enslaved Africans and their descendants. It was one of the few items that enslaved Africans were allowed to grow in a garden, making it readily available.
- Black-eyed peas: This side dish is historical to African American culture because upon arriving in North America, enslaved Africans brought with them the practice of cultivating and cooking black-eyed peas, which became a symbol of resilience and survival.