Bridget King (Top Photo), Nikki Watson with her mom, aunt and sister (Bottom Left Photo) and Carrie Thomas-Omáur (Bottom Right Photo). Photos used with permission.
Dear IAHSP® Members, Vendors and Colleagues,
So, what exactly is Juneteenth? The name itself is derived from the combination of June and 19th (1865), marking the day when slavery came to an end in America. Despite President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation being issued over two years earlier, on January 1, 1863, its enforcement faced challenges due to a scarcity of Union troops in the rebellious state of Texas.
Bridget King (Captiva Designs), a valued member of our association and her local IAHSP® Chapter in Fort Lauderdale, FL, shares her reflections on Juneteenth: "Juneteenth represents a pivotal moment in American history. Emancipation, freedom, sacrifices, and resilience are the words that come to mind. I'm grateful to the countless individuals who made significant contributions to the black society and the ongoing pursuit of equality and social justice. I am free to pursue my dreams, goals, and aspirations because of those who came before me and made ultimate sacrifices. I express gratitude to God for the freedoms I enjoy today, and we must never forget the historical significance of this celebration of freedom from slavery. Black Americans possess a rich culture and history that deserves recognition and respect. My prayer is that we strive towards a more inclusive and equitable society for all black people. Juneteenth serves as a reminder of the struggles endured and an affirmation of our cultural identity."
Here at IAHSP®, we firmly believe in fostering inclusivity and valuing the diverse contributions of all our members, including the richness of their cultures. Carrie Thomas-Omáur (Branding with Carrie), an esteemed branding speaker at the IAHSP® Conference in 2023, reminds us that this special holiday "is important because it celebrates real history from a different perspective."
Nikki Giovanni Watson (The Design Squad), a well-known figure in the design and staging industry and an HGTV personality, opens up about her personal connection to Juneteenth. Being a fifth-generation Texan, she emphasizes the significance of this day as a symbol of "family" for her. Juneteenth represents a momentous event that took place on June 19th, and it serves as an opportunity for her community to come together and take pride in their shared history. The celebration typically involves family members and those connected to the family, creating cherished memories that revolve around learning about their roots. Growing up, Nikki's parents instilled in her a strong sense of pride in her identity and heritage. Juneteenth acts as a poignant reminder of this valuable lesson.
Indeed, this day serves as a powerful reminder for all of us. It highlights the importance of self-awareness, resilience in the face of adversity, and the appreciation of our loved ones throughout our journeys.
As we join in celebrating Juneteenth alongside each and every one of you, we extend our gratitude for sharing your stories and thoughts. We deeply value and recognize your central role in IAHSP®. Your membership fuels our passion to be the heart of the home staging industry.
May this historical event continue to educate and inspire our members, ensuring that such injustices are never repeated. Let us always strive to treat everyone we encounter with kindness and compassion. Happy Freedom Day to all!
In unity and celebration,
Amy Powers
President, International Association of Home Staging Professionals (IAHSP®)
SPECIAL NOTE: As an organization committed to growth, education and understanding, we encourage you to embark on a journey of cultural diversity awareness by enrolling in our Culture Diversity Expert Course. This course equips you with the necessary knowledge to navigate the nuances involved when interacting with individuals from different cultures. Start making a difference today by accessing the course here.
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