How to Observe Juneteenth By Donating to Organizations Fighting for Racial Justice
It’s been nearly a month since the murder of George Floyd—and even though protests demanding justice for his death are still going strong across America, not nearly enough has changed. In Atlanta last Friday night, Rayshard Brooks was shot and killed by officers—who are now facing charges for his death—responding to a call about a man sleeping in his car at a parking lot. Brooks was supposed to celebrate his eight-year-old daughter’s birthday the next day.
This Friday, June 19, is Juneteenth—the commemoration of the end of slavery in the United States. Even if you’re not able to participate in the many protests and events planned for Juneteenth, you can still observe it this year. There are countless organizations fighting for justice for Black Americans who need your support. From prison abolition activists like the Prison Policy Initiative, to groups like Dream Defenders who are supporting Black youth, here is a list of organizations you can donate to in observance of Juneteenth.
Continue Demanding Justice for George Floyd
You can still donate to the George Floyd Memorial Fund, which George’s brother, Philonise, started for the Floyd family—with funds going toward taking care of George’s children. There are many justice organizations in Minnesota striving to support protestors and create reform in the state: The North Star Health Collective, Minnesota Freedom Fund, Reclaim the Block, and Black Visions Collective.
Donate to Bail Funds
The Bail Project fights for pretrial justice, and can help you find bail funds in your city, which keep people out of jails as they await trial.
Support Prison Abolition Groups
The Equal Justice Initiative works toward criminal justice reform, public education, and more. There’s The Innocence Project, too, which provides free legal help to those who have been wrongfully convicted. The Center for Prison Reform has an extensive list of movements to donate to as well.
Donate to Groups Supporting Black Youth
The Dream Defenders are fighting to end the criminalizations of Black youth in the United States. Organizations such as the Black Youth Project, Black Girls Code, and the Colin Kaepernick Know Your Rights Camp are elevating the voices of the next generation of Black leaders.
Help Racial Justice Organizations Continue to Fight
There are several prominent national organizations you can support, including the NAACP, which has fought for Black Americans for well over a century now. You could also help Black Lives Matter—by way of the umbrella organization or a local chapter—continue the work they’ve done since the killing of Trayvon Martin, in 2013.
Show Support for the Black LGBTQ Community
The National Black Justice Coalition specifically works toward making employment and education opportunities more inclusive for Black LGBTQ members. This GoFundMe supports Black trans women who are living on the streets of Atlanta. For other organizations that help provide healthcare and monetary support to Black LGBTQ communities, check out The Transgender District, The Marsha P. Johnson Institute, and the Trans Justice Funding Project.
Give to Museums Preserving and Celebrating Black History and Arts
There are several museums that celebrate, preserve, and educate guests about African American history—and many are in need of support, especially after closing their doors temporarily due to the coronavirus pandemic. Look into giving to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the International African American Museum, and the Association of African American Museums.
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