Spokane NAACP Celebrates Juneteenth with a Focus on Community, Leadership, and Education
Gonzaga University hosted the Spokane NAACP Juneteenth Fireside Chat on Juneteenth. This event brought together community leaders, a former NFL star, and an enthusiastic youth council to discuss the enduring importance of Juneteenth and the ongoing fight for liberation. The discussion emphasized themes of community, leadership, and the critical role of education in shaping the future.
Lisa Gardner, President of the Spokane NAACP, facilitated the engaging conversation with former Seahawks Super Bowl champion Cliff Avril. Gardner articulated her vision for the event, aiming to connect with the community, particularly young Black individuals, by featuring a relatable and inspiring figure like Avril. Her goal was to impart the understanding that the youth are the inheritors of the NAACP and their communities, highlighting the importance of developing future leaders. Gardner stressed that Juneteenth is more than just a historical commemoration; it's a daily celebration of freedom and an ongoing struggle for liberation that requires constant effort and collaboration within the community. She underscored that while the Fourth of July marks the nation's independence, Juneteenth represents the continuous pursuit of freedom for those who were enslaved, a pursuit demanding daily commitment and celebration of growth within both the Black community and the broader collective.
Cliff Avril, known for his prowess on the football field, demonstrated a deep passion for community and leadership. He shared insightful perspectives, emphasizing the necessity of collective service and mutual support. "If we don't help each each other, who is going to help us?" Avril questioned, highlighting the need for individuals to uplift one another. His participation resonated deeply, especially with the younger attendees, who saw a prominent figure dedicated to their community's well-being.
The event also shone a spotlight on the newly re-established Spokane NAACP Youth Council. Mya Jefferson, Secretary for the Youth Council, shared insights into their rapid growth, now boasting over 25 members, making them an official youth council recognized by the NAACP branch. Jefferson highlighted the personal impact of the event, particularly the emphasis on seeking knowledge, a key motivation for her joining the council. She noted that in Spokane, discussions about Black heritage and culture are not always prevalent, making such events crucial for education and awareness. The youth council members, including the Miss Juneteenth Court, actively participated, underscoring the importance of education and setting a high standard for future generations. They spoke passionately about the legacy of their ancestors, emphasizing that the struggles of the past demand that current generations strive for excellence, pursue education, and actively work to improve their communities. They stressed that knowledge is power and that complacency in seeking information sets a poor standard for the future.
Jaebadiah Gardner, founder and CEO of Gardner Global and cousin to Lisa Gardner, expressed immense pride in the Spokane NAACP chapter's activism. He lauded their efforts as a model for other chapters across the state, emphasizing their role in rallying and uniting the community to remember the profound significance of Juneteenth. Jaebadiah underscored that while Juneteenth commemorates a past event, the need for reminders of freedom and continuous work for liberation persists, as "slavery takes different forms." He passionately advocated for the generational passing down of history and traditions, urging the community to amplify these narratives so that all communities understand the historical significance and ongoing contributions of Black people to society. He encouraged individuals to utilize their digital resources to seek knowledge and make informed decisions, looking beyond headlines to truly understand complex issues.
The Juneteenth Fireside Chat at Gonzaga University served as a powerful reminder that the fight for liberation is ongoing and deeply intertwined with community, leadership, and education. It underscored the importance of continuous dialogue, active participation, and the empowerment of future generations to ensure a more just and equitable society.
