Breaking Chains, Building Beats: Commemorating Juneteenth and Championing Justice through Music
Today, we commemorate the end of slavery and reflect on the ongoing struggle for freedom and justice for all. Juneteenth, also known as Emancipation Day or Freedom Day, holds a special place in our heart at Give a Beat. It commemorates June 19, 1865, when enslaved African Americans in Texas finally learned about their freedom, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed.
Just like Juneteenth symbolizes freedom and liberation from oppression, Give a Beat is committed to ending mass incarceration and promoting justice within marginalized communities. We understand that music has the ability to uplift individuals who have been impacted by the criminal justice system. For too long, our criminal justice system has perpetuated cycles of poverty, trauma, and inequity that disproportionately affect Black and Brown communities.
Through our Prison Electronic Music Program, participants often experience a sense of freedom and liberation. Testimonials from our program participants reflect this shared sentiment. One individual expressed, “For the past 3 hours, I didn’t feel like I was incarcerated,” while another stated, “Today made me feel like I was free.” These quotes highlight how music has the ability to uplift individuals who have been impacted by the criminal justice system. By empowering them with creative expression and connection to positive role models, we can help break down barriers to opportunity and work towards a future where everyone has the chance to thrive.
"It's really great that you guys come in here and bring us something positive, we're surrounded by negativity all the time. When I come to this class it doesn't really feel like prison. I feel free to be myself and learn and grow and I can tell you guys really care, so thank you."
- DJ Velocity, Prison Electronic Music Program Participant
The appreciation shown by program participants further reinforces our mission. One individual gratefully remarked, “It’s really great that you guys come in here and bring us something positive… When I come to this class it doesn’t really feel like prison. I feel free to be myself and learn and grow.” This sentiment underscores our dedication to creating an environment where individuals can thrive despite their circumstances.
So as we remember and honor Juneteenth this month, we continue our work at Give a Beat, using music as an instrument of liberation and standing up for justice within our society.
“Pure Joy” for Freedom and Liberation
Give a Beat Records serves as both a label for social change and a voice for the underrepresented. As we celebrate Juneteenth and Black Music Month, it is important to uplift the incredible work of our supporting artists like geriFree, DJ Hotwaxx, and Hazmat Live on their “Pure Joy” remix. Their collaboration not only showcases the power of music to bring joy and unity, but also pays homage to the resilience and creative spirit of black communities.
Through their uplifting music, we work with artists like these who contribute to the ongoing pursuit of freedom, equality, and social change. May their inspiring creations continue to spread joy and healing as we honor the significance of Juneteenth and embrace the diversity of black music genres that have shaped our society.
Give a Beat Records continues to be driven by the belief that music can foster unity and bring about positive change. As we commemorate Juneteenth, we remain steadfast in our commitment to empowering those affected by systemic inequalities, amplifying their voices, and working towards a society where freedom, equality, and empowerment are truly accessible to all.
“Give a Beat gave me an opportunity to pursue a dream. In spite of me being formerly incarcerated, in spite of my age, they opened that door and believed in me. There’s so much beauty in that.”
- geriFree
