Credit Union ONE will be closed on Friday, June 19, 2026 in observance of Juneteenth, a day that honors freedom, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of equality. As a credit union built on the philosophy of “people helping people,” we recognize Juneteenth as an opportunity to reflect on the past and create welcoming, inclusive communities for all.
To honor Juneteenth, we’re taking a closer look at the meaning of the holiday, sharing ways to celebrate, and highlighting perspectives from our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Employee Resource Group.
What Is Juneteenth?
Also known as Freedom Day, Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. Although the Emancipation Proclamation was signed in 1863, it wasn’t until June 19, 1865 that all enslaved people were finally informed of and granted their freedom throughout the country.
While Juneteenth (a blend of the words “June” and “nineteenth”) was officially recognized as a federal holiday in 2021, early celebrations date back to 1866. Today, Juneteenth is both a time to celebrate and a time to pause for reflection. It honors Black liberation, resilience, history, culture, and progress, while also encouraging continued conversations around justice, opportunity, and equality.
How to Celebrate Juneteenth
This week, Juneteenth celebrations will take place across the country, including festivals, parades, educational events, live performances, family gatherings, and community service activities.
These events often include music and food, along with symbolic colors derived from the Pan-African flag: red for strength and sacrifice, black for people and heritage, green for hope and growth, and sometimes the addition of yellow/gold for prosperity and excellence.
For many, Juneteenth is also an opportunity to support Black-owned businesses and organizations and learn more about Black history in the U.S.
Perspectives From Our DEI Employee Resource Group
At Credit Union ONE, our DEI Employee Resource Group meets throughout the year to foster meaningful conversations, share educational resources, and identify opportunities to support our employees, our members, and our community.
Two DEI Employee Resource Group members, Dean and Alyson, shared their perspectives and insights about Juneteenth.
What does Juneteenth mean to you?
Dean: Juneteenth represents one of the most significant milestones in American history, the moment when freedom was truly extended to all people. It marks both the realization of liberty and the beginning of a continued journey toward equality in our nation.
Alyson: Juneteenth means power and freedom to me. It is a time to truly celebrate how far we have come as Black people in America. I stand proud in who I am and use this time to teach my children our culture and to be proud about who you are!
What makes you feel most celebrated and supported on Juneteenth, in the workplace and beyond?
Dean: Recognition is what makes this day most meaningful. Juneteenth has evolved from a largely unknown moment in history to a nationally recognized holiday. Acknowledging its significance and honoring the resilience and contributions of Black Americans reinforces the values of equality, inclusion, and respect that this day represents, both in the workplace and in our communities.
Alyson: In the workplace, I appreciate how when Juneteenth became a federal holiday in 2021, Credit Union ONE honored the holiday on the same day. It feels good to know that I work for a place that supports not only Black/African American culture, but all cultures. Beyond the workplace, it is just amazing to see the community celebrate across the entire metro Detroit area, especially in Detroit, MI. It is like a city-wide party!
What does the credit union value of “people helping people” mean to you, in the context of DEI?
Dean: “People helping people” reflects the essence of diversity, equity, and inclusion. It is about supporting one another without regard to race, background, or identity. In many ways, this value embodied DEI principles long before the term became widely used. It’s about celebrating each other’s successes, offering support during challenges, and fostering a culture where everyone feels seen, valued, and included. That commitment is something I’m proud to be part of.
Alyson: Using this term makes me see this as “no one feeling left out.” We as Credit Union ONE continue to want to help everyone, from our team members/employees to the community!
What’s one way everyone can celebrate Juneteenth?
Alyson: Going to any Juneteenth events throughout Michigan or across the United States. Support Black-owned businesses, make donations to Black/African American organizations, or go to the many celebrations around the community.
Celebrating Juneteenth in Our Community
As we observe Juneteenth, we remain committed to serving our community and supporting events and organizations that foster connection, education, and positive impact.
On Saturday, June 20, Credit Union ONE will help sponsor Jubilee on the Block, an annual event hosted by Juneteenth Jubilee Detroit that celebrates joy, culture, wellness, community, and collective progress. Credit Union ONE is also proud to donate to the Black United Fund of Michigan, a local nonprofit organization committed to implementing and supporting impactful youth workforce development and educational programs through collaborative partnerships.
We wish you and your family a joyful and meaningful Juneteenth!