.Pharrell, funnyblackdude, TheEllenShow and CNN’s VanJones68 have launched what they are billing TheJuneteenthPledge to ensure Juneteenth—the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of slavery’s ending in the U.S—becomes a paid holiday in the U.S.
On the heels of nationwide racial justice protests, four familiar faces have banded together to ensure history is not forgotten.
News of the initiative comes after a June 26th virtual call that the group held with dozens of CEO and top executives from major corporations across the country. Williams opened and closed what is said to have been an emotional call, with Barris and Jones also speaking at length. Those who participated and agreed to the pledge include leaders from adidas, Airbnb, Amblin Partners, Greensill, HP, Participant, The J. M. Smucker Company, Starbucks and Under Armour.
“I love America for its progression, but I’m really in love with the untapped potential of this country. It was incredible to have powerful minds come together and really listen and be open to celebrating Juneteenth as a paid holiday. These companies influence which way the wind blows, they influence the economy and this was a very meaningful step in the right direction,” Williams said in a statement Monday.
He continued: “Right now, we’re part of a unified movement and there is so much we can accomplish in coming together. CEOs can serve as agents of change by helping to shift us forward. Honoring Juneteenth as a holiday is not only a way to unite companies in creating positive change, but also a way to unite employees, consumers, communities and hopefully our country in doing the same.”at Netflix, where thecreator and star has a wide-ranging overall deal.
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