Celebrating Juneteenth at Friends of the Children - Utah

Juneteenth is a day of jubilation, marking the day enslaved people in Texas were notified of their emancipation. Friends of the Children recognizes the importance of Juneteenth to many Black Americans and allies across the nation. We also know that many people are not truly free as long as there is devaluing of Black humanity, systemic and structural injustices, and antiBlack racism.

Friends of the Children is dedicated to ensuring our staff and children who identify as Black know they are valued and belong. We unapologetically stand for the personhood of our Black staff and youth every day of every month of every year.

Just as putting children first is one of our core organizational values, so is demanding equity: “We acknowledge the historical and present injustices impacting marginalized communities. We demand equity from ourselves and from our community. We insist that all people have the necessary support to achieve all of their hopes and dreams. We amplify the voices of our children, families and communities. We bring together different experiences, skills and backgrounds to provide opportunities to overcome personal, systemic and institutional barriers.”

Our organization and staff are inspired by the youth and families we serve, and we hope that the impact we make in the lives of the children will help ensure Black liberation.