Juneteenth: Why History Matters in Human Relationships

Written by: Connie Summers, Chief People & Culture Officer 

Each year on June 19, we observe Juneteenth, commemorating the day in 1865 when enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, learned they were free—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. Juneteenth is a celebration of freedom, resilience, and progress, while also serving as a reminder that the effects of slavery, segregation, discrimination, and unequal access to opportunity did not disappear overnight. 

History continues to shape the experiences of individuals, families, and communities. The stories passed down through generations influenced how people build trust, communicate, seek support, and engage with institutions and one another. For many, history is not simply something studied in books—it is part of their lived experience. 

This understanding is central to trauma-informed care. A trauma-informed approach encourages us to look beyond behaviors and assumptions and instead ask, “What experiences may have shaped this person’s journey?” Rather than judging differences in communication styles, levels of trust, or responses to challenges, we seek to understand them through a lens of empathy, curiosity, and respect. 

These principles are not only important in the care we provide—they are equally important in our relationships with one another. Meeting people where they are requires more than kindness; it requires understanding. Historical experiences, cultural traditions, family stories, and community influences shape how each of us navigates relationships and responds to the world around us. 

As colleagues, we can honor both the significance of Juneteenth and the principles of trauma-informed care by living our values every day: 

• Growth by remaining open to learning about experiences and perspectives different from our own. 

• Respect by recognizing the dignity and worth of every individual and valuing their unique journey. 

• Accountability by reflecting on our own assumptions and striving to create environments where everyone can thrive. 

• Communication by listening with curiosity, seeking understanding, and engaging in honest and transparent dialogue. 

• Compassion by responding with empathy, suspending our own biases, and assuming positive intent of everyone when challenges or misunderstandings arise. 

• Equity by recognizing that people may begin from different places and ensuring everyone has the opportunity to be heard, supported, and successful. 

Assuming positive intent does not mean ignoring differences or challenges. Rather, it means choosing to approach one another with curiosity instead of judgment and understanding instead of assumption. When we take the time to understand the experiences that may shape a person’s perspective, we strengthen trust, deepen relationships, and create a greater sense of belonging. 

As we reflect on Juneteenth, we honor the resilience of those who came before us and reaffirm our commitment to fostering a culture where every person feels respected, valued, and heard. By understanding how history continues to influence human experiences, we strengthen our ability to support one another and live out our values in meaningful ways every day.