Juneteenth, celebrated every June 19th, marks the day enslaved black folks in America finally heard the news of their freedom. Usually, folks link this holiday with Democrat-led civil rights fights, but from a black conservative point of view, it’s more about resilience, hustle, and taking control of your future.

While Juneteenth is a symbol of liberation, today’s talk around it sometimes gets caught up in politics. Black conservatives see it as a celebration of strength and progress made through hard work. It’s about recognizing that true freedom comes from personal responsibility, not just government handouts or promises.

Many black conservatives believe that Republican policies historically supported opportunities for black folks to succeed. They point to efforts like promoting school choice, reducing government overreach, and encouraging black entrepreneurs. These ideas are seen as ways to empower individuals, helping them build their lives on their own terms — just like emancipation was about breaking free and making your own way.

It’s important to remember that the Republican Party played a crucial role in the fight against slavery and racial injustice. Abraham Lincoln, the first Republican president, signed the Emancipation Proclamation and pushed through the 13th Amendment, which ended slavery. Republicans have a legacy rooted in anti-slavery efforts and civil rights. Yet, over the years, some say the party has drifted from those roots.

Black conservatives believe that today’s Republicans should use Juneteenth as an opportunity to remind black folks of that history. It’s a moment to share the party’s original anti-slavery roots and highlight how conservative principles, like limited government, individual liberty, and free enterprise, align with the ongoing fight for black empowerment. Instead of shying away from that history, Republicans should embrace it and show how their roots support freedom and opportunity for all.

In recent years, some conservative leaders have used Juneteenth as a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come and what still needs to be done. They highlight that celebrating emancipation should also mean taking responsibility for your own success. It’s about community, hustle, and seizing opportunities — values that align with the core message of Juneteenth.

At the end of the day, from a black conservative perspective, Juneteenth isn’t just about remembering the past. It’s about inspiring black folks to keep pushing, to believe in themselves, and to pursue their own version of freedom and success. It’s a call to embrace the principles of liberty and self-reliance, and to keep working toward a brighter future. Republicans should use this day to reconnect with their anti-slavery roots and show black Americans that their fight for freedom is still a core part of their mission.