Tierra Walker on the Significance of Juneteenth & Freedom Riders ERG

Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, marks a pivotal moment in American history—the day in 1865 when the remaining enslaved African Americans in Texas were informed of their freedom, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. For Tierra Walker, a dedicated Achieve Welcome Call Specialist and Freedom Riders Employee Resource Group (ERG) member, Juneteenth is more than a historical event—it's a day of reflection, celebration, and ongoing commitment to diversity, inclusion, and equality.

Honoring Juneteenth with heart, compassion & empowerment

"Juneteenth signifies the day slavery ended in Texas for 250,000 slaves during the Civil War in 1865 and were declared free. The Emancipation Proclamation took effect in 1863, but because Texas was a Confederate State, this 13th Amendment didn't take effect until two years later," Tierra explains. For her, Juneteenth embodies "freedom" and "equality," concepts she passionately supports by participating in charities and activities, including volunteering at local food pantries, and making determined efforts to support Black-owned businesses.

Working for a company like Achieve that acknowledges Juneteenth as a holiday also holds profound significance for Tierra. "It shows compassion and instills the core values that we practice day to day not only for members but teammates as well," she says. Achieve and its Freedom Riders ERG honors this day through various impactful events, including cookouts with traditional soul food, educational sessions on the holiday's history, and team-building activities that often involve listening to motivational speakers and volunteering for nonprofits.

One event that stands out in Tierra's memory is 2023's lunch celebration and the Power of Allyship event. "It gave teammates a taste of southern soul food and shared their history and fun facts about the holiday," she recalls. These activities not only foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Juneteenth but also strengthen the bonds among teammates.

Rallying together with the Freedom Riders ERG

The Freedom Riders ERG plays a crucial role in organizing Juneteenth celebrations at Achieve. Tierra, who's part of the Freedom Riders Sub-Committee, takes pride in the collaboration and teamwork involved in creating engaging content and events.

"Freedom Riders ERG has arranged several Juneteenth celebrations, including a delicious lunch of different foods in the Café. Coming up, we're planning an in-office lunch like BBQ with fun games, some line dancing, and more," she shares. Additionally, the group actively promotes local events and Black-owned businesses on their Slack channel, encouraging teammates to support and empower their respective communities.

Growing through diversity & inclusion

Achieve's Juneteenth recognition has had a reaffirming impact on Tierra's experience as a teammate. "It has just made me want to do more research about Juneteenth, the history, how it came about, and what was behind it," she says. By promoting knowledge and understanding of this significant day, Achieve can further enhance diversity and inclusion within the workplace. "We as ERG's can also promote more by getting others involved," Tierra suggests. "Posting in our main Slack channels about the importance of knowledge on this holiday and hyping it up by inviting people to come into work to enjoy some good soul food while interacting with one another are great diversity and inclusion promoters." Encouraging participation and education about Juneteenth gives every teammate a chance to appreciate rich cultural heritages and ongoing struggles for equality.

For Tierra, working at Achieve has provided a unique platform to engage with and honor Juneteenth. She reflects on the significance of this day and how it's shaped her understanding of history and freedom. "Growing up, I always thought Juneteenth was the day slavery actually ended. Once I got a better understanding of what/how it came about, it changed my perspective on things—especially when I became a resident of Texas," she shares. Tierra's personal journey of discovery underscores the true weight of continuous, intentional learning for a deeper appreciation of historical events.

Inspiring action by celebrating Juneteenth as one

Tierra's advice to her colleagues at Achieve about honoring Juneteenth is rooted in knowledge-seeking efforts and involvement. "Juneteenth was created in 1865 when the slaves were freed in Texas. In 1863, which was known as Freedom's Eve, the Emancipation Proclamation had taken place and slaves were freed in Confederate States. Blacks marched to different cities to make it known this day had come. This was a day of hope for slaves—people were reunited with their families, they could then get an education, and had just as many rights as everybody else," she explains.

For Achieve teammates looking to engage with and support the principles celebrated on Juneteenth, and year-round, Tierra emphasizes the importance of joining the Freedom Riders ERG while also taking personal responsibility for educating oneself for a more comprehensive understanding of the holiday. "Beyond the office, I think Juneteenth is a major learning opportunity for all cultures and backgrounds. The best way to celebrate is by seeking a greater knowledge and understanding of Juneteenth," she advises.

Juneteenth is a day that holds deep historical and personal significance, and at Achieve, it's celebrated through recognition, education, and advocacy. Tierra’s insights and experiences as a member of the Freedom Riders ERG highlight the importance of distinguishing and celebrating this day. By fostering a culture of growth through empowerment, inclusivity, learning, and support, Achieve honors the spirit of Juneteenth.