-John Naisbitt

During NABWIC's recent Strategic Planning meeting at the Embassy Suites, Downtown Houston, Texas, all of us were reminded that NABWIC's focus and vision are to build long-lasting strategic partnerships with first-rate organizations. relationships.

In our efforts to look forward to reviewing and revising our strategic plan, we recognized that to plan for the future in the construction industry -- as we create and become the pipeline --we also had to look back. Looking back, we could see how we helped construct and build this country. Looking forward, we could envision how we would help build for the next century, starting right where we are with a plan.

And so it is with Independence Day. One of my favorite authors, Frederick Douglas, talks about how we celebrate and acknowledge the Fourth of July as our Independence Day according to the Declaration of Independence. He also delivered a speech entitled, "What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?" 

This brings us to the topic of Juneteenth (June 19), which is now a federal holiday acknowledged by the United States commemorating the end of slavery, whereby slaves in Texas were pronounced free two and one-half years after the Declaration of Independence. The official proclamation was on Jan. 1, 1863. However, Galveston, Texas, did not receive the declaration of this news until Jun. 19, 1865. Therefore, this day became a "Fourth of July" for the enslaved people of Texas. This is our Declaration of Independence.

Although we celebrate and honor July 4, we all can celebrate the future while we remember the past in looking back at Juneteenth (June 19). Juneteenth must not be a “black holiday.” If we are to find a way forward in our country, if we are to be authentic members of humanity, we must find the humility to admit that we don’t know nearly as much as we think we do. This year, Juneteenth must become a day for all of us to earnestly fill in the gaps of the stories that have not been taught nor told. Failure to do so will leave us with significant gaps in our history and create shortsightedness in enabling us to plan for our future appropriately.

John F. Kennedy said it best, Efforts and courage are not enough without purpose and direction."

Here's wishing a day of freedom and prosperity to all!

The website June9teen.com provides visitors with progressive conversations about the rich history and bright future of African Americans. Below are two illustrative videos of events and conversations held during the week.