June 19th, or Juneteenth, is the day the Emancipation Proclamation finally reached the last enslaved people in Texas in 1865—some two and a half years after it was originally issued. The date has long been celebrated in many Black communities, but 2025 marks just the fifth annual observance of Juneteenth as a federal holiday.
Honoring the liberation of enslaved people in the U.S. is something in which we can all participate. So here at Lulus, we are taking the day to rest, recharge, reflect, and recommit to the work that is still left when it comes to belonging, dignity, and a more just society for all.
Ahead, we’re also sharing what Juneteenth means to some of our own Lulus Black Affinity Group members, and how you can celebrate and support the community on this day—from wherever you are.
“What Juneteenth Means to Me:”
Patrick Buchanan, SVP Brand Marketing
“For me, Juneteenth is about honoring the beauty and resilience of those who came before us—and continuing the work they started. It’s both a celebration and a call to action, a moment to reflect on the past while committing to a future where freedom, equity, and representation are truly accessible to all.”
Shantell Ford-Faithful, Talent Engagement and Development Specialist
“As someone who has lived in Texas for a great portion of my life, I was able to embrace the culture, and see how important Juneteenth is to the Black community here. Each celebration I’ve attended has left me with an overwhelming sense of community, because everyone feels like family.
“I always leave with some nuggets of wisdom from elders, a larger network of support, and a full belly. I’ll be in New Orleans this year during the holiday, and I can’t wait for the conversations, dancing, and FOOD (gumbo me, please)!”
Mikesha Calhoun, HR Manager
“As a Black woman in America, celebrating Juneteenth means to me honoring my ancestors who were enslaved in this country and around the world. It means celebrating their fight for their ultimate freedom from bondage.
“It’s because of their tenacity and endurance that I am able to live the life I live with my husband and children. And while we are free in the definition of the word, we as a people have to continue their fight in order to receive our true freedom from the racial and social injustices happening today. Happy Juneteenth to the entire LuCrew!”
Virtual Juneteenth Celebrations
Find a free, virtual option for celebrating Juneteenth here!
Black-Owned Brands to Shop:
Put your dollars into action and show your support by shopping from Black-owned brands on Juneteenth and beyond.
- Black Girl Sunscreen: Sunscreen created with black skin & darker skin tones in mind
- Briogeo Hair Care: Clean hair care products built to treat every hair type and texture
- Clare: Zero VOC, designer-curated interior paint and painting supplies
- McBride Sisters Collection The largest Black-owned wine company in the United States
- Mented Cometics: Cruelty-free, vegan makeup for all skin tones
- OUI the people: Thoughtfully produced body care products
- Picasso Play Dates: Paint and sip events
- Soulful Organics & Spa Plant-based, small-batched unisex skincare & grooming products
- The Sip Society: Curated sparkling wine subscription service
- The Honey Pot: Plant-derived feminine care and hygiene products
- Trillpaws: Pop culture-inspired pet tags and accessories
- UOMA Beauty: Inclusive makeup and beauty products
How are you celebrating Juneteenth? Tell us in the comments or show us on Instagram @lulus!
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