Cici Battle, social impact strategist, organizer, and facilitator, joined host, Alyse Nelson, for a discussion on Juneteenth and how the United States must move beyond performative solidarity in order to address its deep-rooted issues with race and equality. By reflecting on the events of the past year, including the murder of George Floyd, the global Pandemic, and the transition in federal administration, Cici explored the positive changes that have emerged in nation-wide discourse about race and American history. She also emphasized the need for more tangible measures like federal legislation on lynching and financial reparations to the descendants of slaves that will be crucial next steps if the United States strives to be truly cognizant of its past and committed to building a brighter future.

Cici is a strong and resilient leader who has dedicated her life to supporting young leaders, the women’s movement, and transforming corporate cultures to better support the needs of marginalized groups. This Juneteenth, we encourage you to learn about the history of the holiday and use the day to reflect on the ways we can all move the charge forward for a better future.

To learn more about Vital Voices, visit www.vitalvoices.org. This series is inspired by our book, Vital Voices: 100 Women using their Power to Empower, edited by Alyse Nelson with art by Gayle Kabaker, published by Assouline. 

Host: Alyse Nelson. 

Executive Producer: Sofiyat Ibrahim

Post Copy: Maya Sternthal

Music: Deliberate Thought by Kevin MacLeod. 

Deliberate Thought by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license.  (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)

Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/?keywords=deliberate+thought.

Artist: http://incompetech.com/