CONTACT: Sasha Tenenbaum
Senior Manager, Media and Public Engagement
stenenbaum@momscleanairforce.org
(917) 887-0146
WHAT: Media is invited to join Moms Clean Air Force and Environmental Defense Fund in listening to 10 intergenerational community voices speaking from their hearts about what Juneteenth means to them as part of the video compilation “IN OUR VOICES: JUNETEENTH.” Juneteenth marks a date of major significance in American history and showed us that freedom and racial equality have always been a hard-fought battle for Black Americans – and that battle continues to this day. As part of the 2022 federal commemoration of Juneteenth, Moms Clean Air Force and the Environmental Defense Fund have recommitted to the principles of equity, equality and justice symbolized by Juneteenth. This includes the fight for racial justice which goes hand in hand with environmental justice.
WHO: In addition to Moms Clean Air Force’s National Manager for Health Equity, Almeta Cooper, and Environmental Defense Fund’s Senior Manager for Community Engagement Dr. Tonya Calhoun, the speakers include an octogenarian, three youth speakers, and adults of contrasting perspectives and varying abilities. Preview the video with these excerpts:
“For me, Juneteenth is a reminder of the complexities that come with freedom in America. Just because we say we believe in freedom, doesn’t mean that everyone experiences that on the same level… I realize some of these conversations come with complexities that can be a bit uncomfortable, but I think the better we understand freedom, the better we can build it and protect it.” – Alzay Calhoun
“I’m grateful that Juneteenth is now a national holiday and I will continue to reflect on the strength and endurance of our people, the recognition of Black voices, and ability to come together and progress towards equal opportunities for all. Sensitized to the conditions and experiences of all people, only then can we make significant and lasting improvements in our society.” – Dr. Tonya Calhoun
“For my family, Juneteenth…was about the appreciation of the progress that we have made today as a people, but also acknowledging the resilience and perseverance it took for our ancestors to get us to where we are today.” – Kari Traylor
“It’s not just an African American holiday. It’s also an American one. One that should be celebrated by all Americans because it represents how America got one step closer to upholding the values it was built on.” – Rayne B.
WHERE: Find the video on our: