Honoring Juneteenth: A Call to Action and Reflection with "A Collective Breath"

As we commemorate Juneteenth, we are reminded of the long journey toward freedom and equality. This day marks the end of slavery in the United States, yet the struggle for true equality continues. In early June of 2020, many of us were shaken to our core, unable to function normally, unable to comprehend the tragic death of George Floyd—a Black man who found himself unable to breathe and ultimately met his demise at the hands of police.

This harrowing event spurred a global outcry and a collective desire to do something meaningful. At Press 49, we felt this deeply and were moved to act, launching the collaboration project, A Collective Breath.

The award-winning A Collective Breath features contributions from a diverse group of well-educated Black leaders—civic leaders, entrepreneurs, business owners, and professionals deeply embedded in their communities and religious organizations. Their candid reflections reveal the myriad challenges faced by Black Americans while also offering solutions and actions to pave the way to a brighter future.

The contributors share their reactions not only to George Floyd's murder but also to the deaths of Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, and countless others whose lives were cut short by racial injustice. They recount personal experiences with law enforcement and societal discrimination that heightened their awareness of their Black identity. Encouraged to pour their hearts into their writings, these voices aim to help you see what they see, hear what they hear, and feel what they feel.

There is a strong need to move others to understand the true purpose behind the Black Lives Matter movement. In the aftermath of tragedies like the Boston Marathon bombing or the Las Vegas shooting, rallying cries of support were universally accepted. However, the call "Black Lives Matter" was (and sometimes still is) often met with resistance. It's crucial to understand that "Black Lives Matter" is not meant to exclude. It's not a rallying cry to say no one else matters, which is what some would have us think. When it was launched, it was meant to highlight the urgent need for justice and equality for Black lives, which have been historically marginalized and oppressed.

A Collective Breath is not an indictment of law enforcement but a heartfelt plea for change. This book sheds light on the Black experience in America and what we believe must change for the sake of our future. It is a collective exhale—the breaths that George Floyd, Manuel Ellis, Javier Ambler, Eric Garner, Daniel Prude, and so many others could not take—to document for the world our feelings and our vision for a better tomorrow.

This Juneteenth, join me and the Press 49 family to honor the progress made and to recognize the work still needed. Let A Collective Breath be a part of your journey towards understanding and action. Purchase your copy today, share its insights, and join the award-winning contributors—Aaron Hawkins, Travis Hardin , Dr. James Smith, Jr. CSP (Certified Speaking Professional) ; Rae B. ; Al Gleason, MBA ; Inacent Saunders ; Tish Times ▪️ Chief Sales Strategist ; LaWanna Wilson ; Artesian Kirksey ; Jaylynn Smith ; Simone E. Morris, MBA, PCC, PMP (she/her/hers) Workplace Culture Expert, Executive Coach, Speaker ; Dr. Helen Holton, PCC, SHRM-CP ; Chandra Gore ; Shawn Dandridge ; TeLisa D. ; Alana M. Hill, PMP, EQAC ; Dr. Paul R. Johnson ; Clinton Harris, MBA ; and yours truly, Bridgett McGowen -Hawkins in making a tangible difference.

Ready to share your message on a larger stage? The team at the award-winning hybrid publishing company Press 49 is ready to make your dream of becoming a published author a reality. Click here to schedule your complimentary call today.