As the calendar turns and we go from one special occasion to the next, I am often surprised to hear, “I hate Christmas!” “We never celebrate Valentine’s Day.” “Every day should be Mother’s Day!” 

If we read between the lines, we will understand that what is actually meant is, “Keep Christ in Christmas.” Or, “Share love every day instead of supporting the Valentine’s Day marketing ploy.” Unfortunately, we can now add Juneteenth to this list. 

If you didn’t know, Walmart started selling a Juneteenth ice cream last month, and soon after experienced a social media backlash. You can read about it here. 

Since I was not in the Walmart meeting rooms when the decision was made to create, brand, and market the product, I won’t speak to that. I will, however, point out that Juneteenth is a time to honor and support Black business owners as well as Black playwrights, scientists, and authors, just to name a few.  

So, if Walmart’s attempt to capitalize on the holiday is controversial, how should we support the holiday and its meaning? 

Take some time this week to watch a documentary, listen to a podcast, or visit a museum. Learn about our country’s history, and work to create more change in your community. Buy from Black-owned businesses. We produced a list last year for our DC friends, but it’s an easy Google search wherever you live. And if you are having a hankering for ice cream, order Creamalicious.