Today, we observe Juneteenth, which has finally become a federal holiday. Like most federal holidays, Juneteenth is officially observed today (Monday) because the holiday fell on a Sunday.
There are many ways to celebrate Juneteenth. One of the activities I was personally involved in was a community activity I lobbied for myself.
The Kiwanis Club of Lincoln City, of which I’m past-president and a current board member, puts up American flags along the highway on a number of key federal holidays, such as the Fourth of July and Memorial Day. It’s a labor-intensive process, and it can sometimes be hard to find volunteers willing to get up at the crack of dawn to place flags along a busy highway in the rain. So, we’re cautious about adding to that burden.
As such, when I made the motion to add Juneteenth to our schedule, I was worried that the club might resist, and I’d prepared my arguments. But I didn’t have to make them. The vote was quickly unanimous.
I also want to celebrate Juneteenth as a publisher, so I’m going to offer you a couple of cool things to read: the official website for Juneteenth, where you can learn all about the history of the holiday and why it’s so important and many ways to celebrate, and a free short story apropos to the day that I think you’ll enjoy.
First, the official website. Click here for that.
Second, the story: “Politicians, Lost Causers, and Abigail Lockwood” by Kristine Kathryn Rusch.
Here’s the synopsis:
1912—In a world where President Andrew Johnson’s conviction at his impeachment trial guaranteed that Reconstruction not only had teeth but also continued into the 20th century, South Carolina stands out as a leader in change, a pioneer of laws that change the balance of power. This new United States, this new South, sees Blacks and women rise to their rightful places of power alongside Whites.
But that doesn’t stop Lost Causers from trying to return the country to its old ways.
So, when someone tries to stop presidential hopeful Kate Wells from speaking at an event organized by the influential Abigail Lockwood, Abigail knows the Lost Causers want to send her a message.
But her response might prove one they never expected.
Click here to download the story.
This story might be alternative history, but every time I read it, I find myself hopeful for a more equitable future.
Allyson Longueira is publisher of WMG Publishing. She is an award-winning writer, editor and designer, working mother, and brain tumor survivor.