The Professionals of Color program aims to impact the FMWF community by creating inclusive opportunities for Professionals of Color to develop personally and professionally through meaningful engagement and a sense of belonging. This program works to support and uplift the diverse voices that make our community vibrant and strong.  

Gabrielle Clavo from the Historical and Cultural Society of Clay County was a guest speaker for the Professionals of Color program’s Discuss, Connect, Reflect series last month.  

She provided unique insights to increase our understanding of Juneteenth's enduring legacy through an event titled Juneteenth Illuminated. This presentation illustrated the profound significance of Juneteenth’s impact on the African American community and its broader implications for our nation's history. 

Following last month's Juneteenth celebrations and its recent recognition as a federal holiday in 2021, Clavo explained that Juneteenth formally acknowledges the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and celebrates their enduring contributions to American history. This historic milestone also highlights the ongoing journey toward racial equality and justice in the U. S. By elevating Juneteenth to a national holiday, the country is making strides toward a more inclusive narrative, fostering greater awareness and understanding of African American heritage and the collective fight for freedom and civil rights. 

Clavo's passion for making historical information more accessible was evident when she shared her goals of using digital technology to enhance education and engage with communities. She emphasized the importance of representation and inclusivity in historical narratives, particularly the often-overlooked Black history in North Dakota and Minnesota. Highlighting the necessity of connecting stories and preserving historical records, Clavo provided insights into the migration patterns of African American communities during the 1880s and 1990s, noting that the pursuit of business opportunities and thriving communities drove these movements. 

By exploring the complexities of African American history and its broader representation, Clavo discussed the challenges of integrating Juneteenth and African American history into mainstream consciousness, stressing the need for diverse historical perspectives. 

The event concluded with a discussion of preserving the history of the Fargo-Moorhead area and the critical role of community contributions. Key questions posed during the discussion included how to connect Juneteenth's history to the present and future, the impact of redlining on African American communities and ways to support Clavo's efforts in preserving and sharing Black history.  

This event was a valuable opportunity to reflect on the journey towards freedom and equality and to reaffirm our commitment to fostering a more inclusive community. You can get involved in The Chamber’s inclusion efforts today. Check out the Professionals of Color program or contact Veera Khalil, The Chamber’s integration strategist, for more information!