Juneteenth came to be an annual federal holiday in 2021 after the U.S. Congress passed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act to remember the day that all enslaved people of the United States were freed.
Juneteenth is celebrated annually on June 19th with the holiday's name being a combination of the words "June" and "nineteenth." More than just being a day of celebration, Juneteenth represents deeper meanings of liberation and the end of slavery. A powerful message, and an impactful history needs a powerful symbol right?
Did you know flags are one of the most effective medium of a message because the combination of symbols and color quickly convey a visual message.
What is the meaning and history of the Juneteenth flag?
The flag that is used today, is the work of artist Lisa Jeanna Graf, who modified the original Juneteenth flag created in 1997 by Ben Haith, the founder of the National Juneteenth Observance Foundation.
The colors on the Juneteenth flag have a special meaning too. The Juneteenth flag is red, white, and blue. the same colors as the USA flag to acknowledge that formerly enslaved people and their descendants are Americans. There is an arc across the flag, symbolizing a new horizon and hope for the future.
The symbols on the flag have a purpose and message as well. The star at the flag's center is a nod to Texas, where Juneteenth was first celebrated. The burst outlining the star suggests a new star, a new beginning. The date of the first Juneteenth (June 19, 1865) is often added to the flag, as well.
How can we learn from the Juneteenth flag?
The Juneteenth flag offers a great representation of how important a symbol can be behind a movement, group, brand, or holiday. The Juneteenth flag, as seen above, has way more meaning and history than just being a flag. Each color and symbol represents an important message that people can identify from the flag.
This can also be seen with flags like the Pride flag, which has all of the colors of the rainbow with each color representing a different group of people. Flags are not just for slapping an image on the front and waving it in the wind. They are effective symbols that can show a deeper meaning to your story or your brand's story.
Flags are also a great way to unite a group of people under one common message. People are able to feel included in the story you are telling by having a flag of their own to hang up and wave around.
Here are some flags that our graphic's team can customize to convey your message:
Custom Message Nylon Flag: These 3' x 5' flags are made of durable nylon with a red, white, and blue striped design with black lettering, a canvas heading, brass grommets, and four rows of lock stitching on the fly end. What a great way to show off your business or brand!
Guidon Military Sized Nylon Flag: If you want to promote your brand, commemorate a special occasion, give a unique gift, or bring attention to your favorite cause, a beautifully crafted custom Guidon Flag is a great way to go!
Nylon Burgee Flag: This brilliantly colored, custom-printed burgee flag will look great wherever it's displayed! A popular shape with boats, marinas, or any nautical-themed activity.
For more ways to customize flags, make sure to check out our website which has more options of the different flags you can use to send your message. Click, here.
Make sure to keep up with the upcoming blog posts that highlight how we are your partner for storytelling through products and design. We love collaborative projects.