CNN Juneteenth Celebration Review
By Marc T. Gaspard Bolin
Friday, June 20, 2023
CNN's second annual "Juneteenth: A Global Celebration for Freedom" concert occurred on Monday night, June 19, 2023, at Los Angeles' historic outdoor Greek Theatre in Griffith Park. Performers included Big Freedia, Coi Leray, Davido, Jodeci and Mike Phillips, Kirk Franklin, Miguel, Nelly, SWV, Tank, from Tank and the Bangas, and Charlie Wilson, with Oscar-winner Questlove and Adam Blackstone serving as musical directors.
CNN's Juneteenth celebration paid homage to Juneteenth's rich history and cultural significance. In this review, we will explore the highlights and key moments that made this celebration truly unforgettable. From thought-provoking discussions on the importance of Juneteenth to captivating musical performances that left audiences in awe, CNN's event was a powerful testament to the resilience and triumph of the African American community. We will discuss the history of Juneteenth, CNN's coverage of the National Holiday, the overall impact this event had on raising awareness and fostering unity, and even a missed opportunity!
Whether you were fortunate enough to witness this celebration firsthand or are curious to learn more about the significance of Juneteenth, this review will provide an insightful and inspiring glimpse into CNN's extraordinary tribute to this historic milestone.
Significance of Juneteenth in American History
Juneteenth holds immense importance in American history as it commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. On June 19, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and proclaimed freedom for the remaining enslaved people in the state, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation had been signed. This day marked a turning point in the fight for freedom and equality, and it has since become a symbol of liberation and resilience for the African American community.
Juneteenth serves as a reminder of the struggles and sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom and equality throughout American history. It is a celebration of resilience, strength, and the triumph of the human spirit in the face of adversity. By recognizing and honoring Juneteenth, we acknowledge African Americans' deep-rooted history and contributions to our nation while also shining a light on the ongoing fight for racial justice and equality.
Highlights of CNN's Juneteenth Coverage
CNN's Juneteenth celebration featured diverse activities and performances that showcase the rich culture and heritage of the African American community, including thought-provoking discussions, powerful musical performances, artistic exhibitions, and community engagement activities that encouraged dialogue and reflection.
CNN's Juneteenth celebration featured a series of special programs, documentaries, and live events that explored Juneteenth's history, culture, and legacy. The network's programming included in-depth interviews with historians, activists, and community leaders who provided valuable insights into the significance of Juneteenth. These discussions educated viewers about the historical context and fostered a deeper understanding of the ongoing struggles for racial equality in America.
CNN's Juneteenth celebration was filled with powerful and thought-provoking moments that left a lasting impact on viewers. One of the highlights was the panel discussion titled "Juneteenth: Reflections and Progress," which brought together influential voices from various fields to discuss the importance of Juneteenth in today's society. The panelists shared personal stories, historical perspectives, and insights into the challenges and triumphs faced by the African American community.
The musical performances that graced the stage during CNN's Juneteenth celebration were nothing less than magical. From beautiful renditions of traditional spirituals to energetic performances of contemporary music, the musical acts captivated audiences and added a sense of celebration to the event. These performances not only showcased the talent and creativity of African American artists but also honored the rich musical heritage of the community.
One standout moment was Nelly's performance at CNN's "Juneteenth: A Global Celebration for Freedom," which was nothing short of a blazing triumph. He took to the stage with fiery energy and delivered an electrifying set that had the audience on their feet, from the infectious beats of "Where the Party At" to the classic hits "Ride Wit Me" and "Hot in Herre," to the killin' duet "Dilemma" (performed here with Chlöe—the star from Disney's new The Little Mermaid), which captured the hearts of viewers around the world. He brought the house down with his signature style and undeniable talent, leaving everyone in awe of his incredible performance.
Another couple of standout moments were Kirk Franklin’s rendition of "Lift Every Voice and Sing," and performances by New Orleans greats Big Freedia, the Queen of Bounce, and Tank, from the Grammy-nominated group Tank and the Bangas. Written by James Weldon Johnson in 1900, "Lift Every Voice and Sing" has been referred to as the Black National Anthem due to its importance in African American culture. It was written as a poem to celebrate Abraham Lincoln's birthday and was later set to music by Johnson's brother, John Rosamond Johnson. The song has been performed at civil rights events, graduations, and other important occasions as a symbol of Black pride and perseverance. Kirk Franklin's rendition of the song at CNN's "Juneteenth: A Global Celebration for Freedom" concert was a powerful and moving tribute to the song's legacy.
Big Freedia and Tank both delivered electrifying performances at CNN's "Juneteenth: A Global Celebration for Freedom." Both artists brought their unique styles to the stage, creating an unforgettable experience for viewers worldwide. Big Freedia energized the audience with her signature New Orleans sound, performing hits like Louder," "Betty Bussit," "$100 Bill," and "Motivate Ya" (with Kelly Price). On the other hand, Tank captivated the crowd with her powerful rendition of "Black Folk" (an unaccompanied, truncated rendition of her song, "Black Folk") delivered from the cultural landmark Studio B in New Orleans:
I love black folk. Black look like a revolution. Look like a family reunion in the park. Black looks like it's a different world. It's more like a crawfish bowl in New Orleans. Black folk joke around like Martin and have paintings from J.J. in the living room. It sounds strong. It looks like sacrifice, there will be flowers blooming in the summertime. Black sound like old songs, something like good food and taste like heart disease, it feel like Maze at jazz fest.
Black sound like something that hurt, like a hard test. Black sound like skin, like something dark. Black sound like hair, yes. Black sound like rough hair and good hair. It's sound like history, like spiritual, like years like working, like night, like Walmart, like Cornerstone, like cash register singing.
But look it look like Oprah. It ages well like Cecily Tyson. It sing like Nina. It got a bad shape like Serena. Black like sound like broken homes and Section A, it smells like crack and collard greens, like big Sunday hats, some little black girl ribbons. Like Tyler Perry making money. Sound like Hayden feel frustrated and daunted, like they won't ever get it, huh, like America won't ever get it, huh, like you've got to push your personal feelings of racial injustice so far underneath the carpet that, whoops, you tripped over your own family history but I love me some black folk. I love to have Greece and the rental fees, the police, the projects, government assistance, Black big bags are hair, fake press, all nails, gold chain, gold teeth, black men, big feet. I just love me some Black folk.
They are the people that were made that from the darkest parts of the sky. And I pray every day that we can truly all return home because I for one truly love me, some Black folk.
Tarriona "Tank" Ball is the lead singer/spoken word poet for Tank and the Bangas, a musical group from New Orleans that blends jazz, funk, soul, and spoken word. The group gained national attention in 2017 when they won the NPR Tiny Desk Concert contest. Their unique sound characterizes their music, which features lead vocalist Tank's dynamic vocals and poetic lyrics. They have performed at several music festivals, including the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and the Essence Festival.
Analysis of CNN's Approach to the Juneteenth Celebration
CNN's approach to the Juneteenth celebration was commendable, as it struck a balance between educating and entertaining its audience. The network's programming incorporated historical context, personal narratives, and cultural appreciation, allowing viewers to comprehensively understand Juneteenth. By combining informative discussions with engaging performances, CNN successfully created a celebration that appealed to a wide range of viewers.
The network's commitment to diversity and inclusion was evident in its choice of panelists, performers, and storytellers. CNN ensured that a variety of perspectives were represented, providing a nuanced and multifaceted view of Juneteenth. This inclusive approach enhanced the overall quality of the celebration and reflected CNN's dedication to promoting equality and social justice.
Criticisms and Praise of CNN's Juneteenth Coverage
While CNN's Juneteenth celebration received widespread acclaim for its informative and engaging programming, it was not without its share of criticisms. Some viewers felt that certain aspects of the event were too commercialized, detracting from Juneteenth's solemnity and historical significance. Others believed the celebration should have given more prominence to grassroots activists and community organizations crucial in promoting Juneteenth awareness.
However, despite these criticisms, CNN's Juneteenth coverage received significant praise for its overall impact and representation. Many viewers appreciated the network's efforts to educate and raise awareness about Juneteenth and its commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices. CNN's celebration was a decisive step toward fostering unity and understanding among diverse communities.
Comparison with Other News Networks' Juneteenth Coverage
CNN's Juneteenth celebration stood out among other news networks' coverage due to its comprehensive approach and emphasis on inclusivity. While other networks also dedicated airtime to Juneteenth, CNN's programming went beyond surface-level reporting, delving deep into the occasion's historical, cultural, and social aspects. The network's commitment to representing diverse voices and perspectives set it apart from its competitors, making CNN's Juneteenth celebration a standout event.
The Impact of CNN's Juneteenth Coverage
CNN's Juneteenth celebration had a significant impact on raising awareness and fostering unity. By dedicating substantial airtime to Juneteenth and showcasing its cultural and historical significance, CNN played a crucial role in educating its viewers and promoting a deeper understanding of the African American community's experiences. The celebration also served as a catalyst for conversations on racial equality, social justice, and the ongoing fight against systemic racism.
A Missed Opportunity
The New Orleans Corridor Dedication and Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony on June 17, 2023, celebrated LA's rich cultural heritage (click here to read more). The event was attended by many prominent figures, including local politicians and community leaders, who gathered to honor the contributions of the city's diverse population. However, I was disappointed that the event did not feature a performance by Big Freedia, who appeared at CNN's "Juneteenth: A Global Celebration for Freedom."
For those that don't know, Big Freedia is a gender-nonconforming, -fluid, -nonbinary, New Orleans-based rapper and ambassador of bounce music—a genre that originated in New Orleans' housing projects. She is known for her high-energy performances and her advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights. Her music has been featured in popular TV shows, such as "RuPaul's Drag Race" and "Broad City." She has also collaborated with artists like Beyonce, Drake, and Lizzo.
The missed opportunity to include Big Freedia in the New Orleans Corridor Dedication and Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony was a significant loss for the event. She represents the city's vibrant cultural scene and would have added a unique and dynamic element to the celebration. And she was already in town!
Conclusion: The Importance of Media Representation in Celebrating Juneteenth
CNN's Juneteenth celebration was a powerful testament to the importance of media representation in celebrating and honoring historic milestones such as Juneteenth. CNN showcased the transformative power of media by providing a platform for marginalized voices, shedding light on the struggles and triumphs of the African American community, and fostering meaningful dialogue. The celebration served as a reminder of the crucial role media plays in shaping public perception and understanding and its responsibility in promoting inclusivity, equality, and justice.
In conclusion, CNN's Juneteenth celebration was a notable tribute to the significance of Juneteenth in American history. Through its informative programming, captivating performances, and commitment to diversity, CNN created an event that entertained, educated, and inspired viewers. The celebration serves as a stepping stone towards a more inclusive and equal society, reminding us of the importance of commemorating and honoring historic milestones that shape our collective identity.