Honoring Juneteenth: Reflections on Freedom, Community, and Wellness from FFC Team Members

Juneteenth is a day of remembrance, celebration, and reflection. It honors freedom, recognizes the resilience and contributions of Black Americans, and reminds us of the ongoing work of building more equitable communities.

At FFC, we believe wellness extends beyond the club walls. It includes creating spaces where people feel seen, supported, and connected. As we honor Juneteenth, we’re grateful to highlight the voices of several FFC team members who shared what the holiday means to them and how it influences the way they connect with their communities, celebrate culture, and prioritize wellness.

The History of Juneteenth

Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, the day Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, and informed enslaved African Americans that they were free—more than two years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation.

While the Emancipation Proclamation was issued by President Abraham Lincoln on January 1, 1863, enforcement was uneven throughout the Confederacy. It wasn’t until Union troops arrived in Texas that many enslaved people learned of their freedom.

Today, Juneteenth serves as both a celebration of freedom and an opportunity to reflect on the ongoing pursuit of equality, justice, and opportunity for all.

The Meaning Behind the Juneteenth Flag

The Juneteenth flag, created in 1997 by activist Ben Haith and later revised in 2000, is rich with symbolism.

The flag’s red, white, and blue colors reflect the American flag, symbolizing that Black Americans are an inseparable part of the American story.

At the center is a white star, representing Texas—the Lone Star State where Juneteenth originated—as well as the freedom of Black Americans across all 50 states.

The burst surrounding the star resembles a nova, symbolizing a new beginning and the promise of freedom.

A curved arc stretches across the flag, representing a new horizon and the opportunities that lie ahead.

Finally, the date June 19, 1865 serves as a permanent reminder of the day freedom was announced in Galveston.

Together, these elements tell a story of resilience, progress, and hope.

Why FFC Recognizes Juneteenth

FFC recognizes Juneteenth because wellness and community are deeply connected. We know that thriving communities are built through understanding, inclusion, and respect for the experiences and histories that shape us.

As a community-centered fitness club, we believe it’s important to celebrate the diversity of our members and team members while creating opportunities to learn from one another. Juneteenth provides an opportunity to reflect on the past, celebrate Black culture and achievements, and continue fostering spaces where everyone feels welcome and empowered.

FFC Team Members Share What Juneteenth Means to Them

Terron Edmonds, Cafe and Juice Bar Manager, FFC Oak Park

“Juneteenth is the idea that absolute equality is possible. Each individual brought here in bondage and born here in that terrible institution now have a hope. The hope was just the start; the mission is far from accomplished.

Everything about Juneteenth is inspiring to me. The acknowledgement, the flags, and the celebration. Being the oldest sibling, a husband, father, and in leadership roles, I do, and will continue to honor my ancestors by leaving a legacy of growth, appreciation, and sharing knowledge.”

Michael Richardson, Membership Director, FFC Lincoln Park

“For me, Juneteenth is a day of gratitude. As a young Black man, I have been blessed with many professional opportunities that would not have been possible without the sacrifices of those who came before me.

On Juneteenth, I celebrate my family and friends, and I make an effort to support my community in Bronzeville and Hyde Park by investing my time, money, and business locally.

Even today, many South Side communities continue to face challenges such as food deserts, limited access to quality healthcare, and a lack of resources. These issues remind me why community support and investment are so important.

I am also thankful for the FFC community and my peers, who have helped me better understand the importance of health, wellness, and taking care of ourselves.”

Happy Juneteenth!”

Lawrence Kay, Personal Trainer, FFC Oak Park

“Although the origin of this holiday was based on betrayal and deceit, as an African American, I view Juneteenth as a time for remembrance, unity, and community. The time for us to remember where we’ve come from as well as the success of our forefathers and mothers fighting for the rights that we have today.”

Adanna Byrd, Personal Trainer, Pilates Instructor, and Group Fitness Instructor, FFC Gold Coast

“June 19th, 1865, the day enslaved Africans in Galveston, Texas, learned of the Emancipation Proclamation. This marks a holiday for African Americans and our long journey towards freedom in this country, even though we are not fully there yet. Juneteenth is a time to honor our ancestors for their courage, pain, strength, and pride.  

I typically spend the holiday with family, watching a documentary or attending an event in my community. 

I received my Bachelor’s in Africana Studies at the University of Miami and share Black history wherever I go. Black history is American history. It is imperative we learn the truths of our history in order to move forward and progress as a better nation.”

“I will never say that progress is being made. If you stick a knife in my back nine inches and pull it out six inches, there’s no progress. If you pull it all the way out, that’s not progress. The progress is healing the wound that the blow made. And they (America) haven’t even begun to pull the knife out, much less heal the wound… They won’t even admit the knife is there.” – Malcolm X

Continuing the Legacy Through Community

Juneteenth reminds us that freedom is not just a moment in history. It is a legacy carried forward through education, community, advocacy, and opportunity.

The reflections shared by Terron, Michael, Lawrence, and Adanna highlight common themes of gratitude, remembrance, growth, and responsibility. They remind us that honoring the past also means investing in the future—supporting our communities, prioritizing wellness, uplifting others, and creating opportunities for the next generation.

As we celebrate Juneteenth, we encourage our FFC community to take time to learn, reflect, support local Black-owned businesses, connect with loved ones, and continue building healthier, stronger communities together.

Happy Juneteenth from all of us at FFC. ✨