Blog Article

Celebrating Juneteenth 2024: A Commitment to Human Civility

Jun 19, 2024

By Kenny Imafidon, Vice President of Operational Excellence

As we gather to commemorate Juneteenth on June 19, 2024, we are reminded of a pivotal moment in American history. This day marks the end of slavery in the United States, when news of emancipation finally reached the last enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, in 1865. Juneteenth is more than just a historical milestone; it is a profound reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the ongoing journey toward justice and equality.

On behalf of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) council at Davidson Hospitality Group, I am honored to reflect on the significance of Juneteenth. In our industry, where we serve diverse communities and interact with individuals from all walks of life, embracing the values of Juneteenth can guide us towards a more inclusive and respectful environment for everyone. The Juneteenth value that I would like to call out this year is human civility.

The Essence of Human Civility

Human civility goes beyond basic manners and politeness. It encompasses respect, empathy, and a genuine recognition of everyone’s inherent dignity. In the context of Juneteenth, human civility involves acknowledging the historical injustices faced by African Americans and committing to actions that promote equity and understanding.

Our company’s Core Value of “Be Inclusive, together we are stronger” and mission to create welcoming spaces for all aligns seamlessly with the principles of Juneteenth. As we celebrate this important day, let us reflect on how we can further human civility within our organization and beyond.

The Power of Civil Conversations

Civil conversations are at the heart of human civility. They allow us to engage in meaningful dialogue, share diverse perspectives, and deepen our understanding of one another. In our daily interactions, whether with colleagues, guests, or community members, fostering an atmosphere of open, respectful communication is essential.

Some Principle to guide us in promoting civil conversations are as follows.
1. Listen Actively: Listening is the cornerstone of effective communication. By truly hearing others, we show respect for their experiences and viewpoints. Active listening involves paying attention, asking clarifying questions, and refraining from interrupting.

2. Speak Thoughtfully: Our words have the power to uplift or harm. When engaging in conversations, especially on sensitive topics like race and equality, it is important to speak thoughtfully and consider the impact of our words. Aim to contribute positively to the dialogue.

3. Seek Understanding: Approach conversations with an open mind and a genuine desire to understand the perspectives of others. This involves acknowledging our own biases and being willing to learn from others’ experiences.

4. Show Empathy: Empathy is the ability to put ourselves in someone else’s shoes and understand their emotions and challenges. By showing empathy, we can build stronger connections and foster a more inclusive environment.

Moving Forward Together

As we celebrate Juneteenth 2024, let’s not only remember the past but also look forward with a renewed commitment to human civility. Each interaction we have—with colleagues, guests, and community members—presents an opportunity to practice respect, empathy, and inclusivity.

In our roles within Davidson Hospitality Group and the Hospitality Industry, we have the unique privilege of bringing people together. Let’s use this privilege to build bridges of understanding and create environments where everyone feels welcome and respected. By honoring the spirit of Juneteenth, we can make meaningful strides toward a more just and equitable society.

Together, let’s celebrate Juneteenth as a day of reflection, education, and action by reaffirming our dedication to the principles of human civility.

Happy Juneteenth!