site banner

Small-Scale Question Sunday for June 18, 2023

Do you have a dumb question that you're kind of embarrassed to ask in the main thread? Is there something you're just not sure about?

This is your opportunity to ask questions. No question too simple or too silly.

Culture war topics are accepted, and proposals for a better intro post are appreciated.

2
Jump in the discussion.

No email address required.

What’s the proper etiquette for Juneteenth? I work with a black guy. Am I supposed to say “Happy Juneteenth!!!” going into the weekend?

Is it a happy holiday or a solome one?

Is there a political valence to wishing someone happy Juneteenth? We all avoid politics we’re possible.

I think lots of people have this question because I hear a hell of a lot of “enjoy the three day weekend” this week.

Is there a political valence to wishing someone happy Juneteenth?

Wishing someone happy Juneteenth would be the equivalent of putting up one of those "In this house we believe" signs. It means exactly what you think it means. Just like Pride is meant to replace the Fourth of July, Juneteenth is intended to replace Father's Day.

Maybe I'm really out of touch, but would one route be to not bring up Juneteenth at all?

Assuming your social skills are decent, and your relationship with the Black guy doesn't make this inappropriate, and he isn't too touchy about it, it might be a good idea to ask him what the etiquette is. Not only will you get your answer, but he will also likely appreciate that you cared to ask.

solome

Solemn?

It’s a gulf coast black holiday, it’s not somber.

There is unfortunately a political valence(I mean, it seems like a pretty reasonable thing to celebrate to me). I don’t think it’s inherently political though.

It commemorates the end of slavery, so I am pretty sure it is a happy holiday. Every Juneteenth event I have ever been to has been pretty festive.