Elements of Freedom: U of R to celebrate Juneteenth with reflection and community

De’Janay (DJ) Mathews ’24 believes deeply in the power of authentic expression as a fundamental element of freedom.

“Being able to show up as your full self and express yourself through art, culture, and community is a significant act of freedom,” said Mathews, vice president of the Black Student, Faculty, Staff, Administrator and Alumni Association (BSFSAA).

Her reflection sets the stage for Celebrate Juneteenth: Elements of Freedom, a vibrant gathering sponsored by the BSFSAA, in partnership with University of Redlands Staff Assembly (URSA) and the Office of Inclusion and Community (OIC). This meaningful event will take place from noon to 1 p.m., Wednesday, June 18, in Hunsaker Lounge.

Michelle Kanu, president of BSFSAA, added a thoughtful perspective on citizenship and belonging.

“For me, it’s the freedom to dream and feel like you belong,” she said. “I hope the event reminds the audience not to take their citizenship rights for granted and to think about what a true privilege it is to move about the country with full mental and political liberty.”

Attendees of the celebration will engage in creating a collective freedom quilt, a profound tradition deeply rooted in Black history and something Mathews hopes will spark conversation.

“Quilt making was used by our ancestors to tell stories, share memories, and preserve our culture,” she said. “Decorating quilt squares for the Freedom Quilt will encourage our community to reflect on what freedom means individually and collectively.”

BSFSAA Secretary Maria Williams highlighted the power of personal storytelling as a key component of freedom.

“I hope attendees feel empowered to share their stories, cultures, and identities, especially as they decorate their personal quilt squares,” she said. The squares will later be displayed in Armacost Library as part of the Juneteenth showcase, symbolizing the diverse fabric, strong allyship, and welcoming community the make up the University.

“Our partnership between BSFSAA, URSA, and OIC demonstrates that identity-based organizations can shine without being siloed,” Williams said. “We all need support in achieving our missions, holding space, spreading the word, and making a difference.”

In addition to meaningful community-building activities, the celebration will include powerful spoken word poetry, a brief history of Juneteenth, and health and wellness resources. All are welcome to join the U of R community in reflecting, celebrating, and envisioning a hopeful future together.