Reflections on Juneteenth: Collective effort, vision, and the belief that justice can’t wait
Juneteenth, recognized nationally as a federal holiday in 2021, marks a significant moment in American history—June 19, 1865—when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas to announce that enslaved people were finally free, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation. It is a day that calls on all of us to remember, honor, and reflect on the resilience and contributions of Black Americans—past and present. Juneteenth is more than a commemoration of freedom delayed; it is a moment to center Black joy, excellence, and the ongoing pursuit of justice. As we celebrate this year, I’m drawn to a powerful local series aired by ABC7 Chicago that traces the throughline of civil rights movements in the city: “Our Chicago: In God We Trust?”. From the strength of the Black church to the momentum of community-led organizing, the series captures the heartbeat of Chicago’s role in national change. What struck me most was the unwavering presence of everyday people—neighbors, elders, youth—who stood up, spoke out, and shaped history. The documentary is not just a look back, but a call forward, asking us to consider where we are now and how the institutions built by past leaders are (or aren’t) continuing the work.
That reflection feels particularly urgent in today’s climate. Even as we recognize the strides made, we also see a resurgence of policies and rhetoric that threaten the rights of so many—especially Black members of the LGBTQIA+ community, which is particularly relevant as June is also Pride Month. As a country, we are witnessing the rollback of protections that were hard-won through decades of advocacy. The spirit of Juneteenth challenges us to respond to these threats not with apathy, but with action—because as the saying goes, “None of us are free until all of us are free.”
This moment reminds us that freedom is not static; it must be maintained, defended, and expanded. Black history is American history, and efforts to diminish or erase it—from school curriculums to public discourse—undermine the very foundation of progress. Juneteenth is not only a celebration but also a reminder that we are still in motion, still marching. It asks us to examine how we show up for one another, especially for those whose identities sit at the intersection of multiple forms of oppression.
In Chicago and beyond, there are powerful organizations doing the work to uplift and protect Black LGBTQIA+ lives. Affinity Community Services, based on the South Side of Chicago, has been leading for decades with a focus on Black queer women and non-binary people. The Brave Space Alliance, the first Black- and trans-led LGBTQ+ center located on the South Side, offers vital programming ranging from mutual aid and wellness services to advocacy and education. Supporting these spaces is one way we can extend the spirit of Juneteenth into our communities year-round.
This Juneteenth, may we honor the legacy of those who came before us, recognize the labor of those still fighting for equity, and recommit ourselves to a future where all people are truly free. Let us remember that while progress is never promised, it is always possible—with collective effort, vision, and the belief that justice can’t wait.
At CHaSCI, we envision a system that achieves equitable outcomes for patients and families with whole-person care and strong communities. Health equity requires hard work to fight against the racist structures that perpetuate inequity and injustice in our society and our healthcare system—and constant reflection on our own contributions to those systems, as well as how we can act individually and collectively to demand racial equity.
Perpetual Assem (she/her) is the Psychotherapy Program Coordinator at Rush University Medical Center, where she supports the supervision of patient care navigation staff and helps manage the day-to-day operations of psychotherapy services. She plays a key role in coordinating referrals, collaborating with providers, and ensuring patients receive timely, high-quality care.
Perpetual is currently pursuing her Master’s in Health Systems Management at Rush University, further deepening her commitment to improving access and equity in healthcare.
Outside of work and school, she enjoys reading fiction and attending live concerts. She brings warmth, curiosity, and a strong sense of purpose to everything she does—both professionally and personally.
